Subject Code and Title PUBH6005: Epidemiology
Assessment Brief 3: Study Design: Short answer questions
This assessment addresses the following learning outcomes:
3. Differentiate between different types of research designs, including observation and experimental and mixed methods designs
4. Assess levels of evidence and make recommendations
5. Interpret data arising from surveillance and research studies, including rates and ratios
6. Understand the difference between association and causation, statistical and public health significance
7. Analyse the role of epidemiology in screening and prevention programs, and assess the sensitivity and specificity of programs
8. Critically evaluate epidemiological studies, including potential for bias, confounding and chance errors+
Instructions: Part 1
The relationship between lung cancer and smoking was studied using cross-sectional, cohort and case-control study designs. Which approach is the most appropriate if you want to examine causation? Explain your reasons why and back up your reasons with justification and referenced examples of research studies.
Part 2
Select the most appropriate study design to explore each of the public health issues outlined below.
The association between depression and binge eating in obese adolescents and adults.
The long term effects of detention on the mental and physical health of asylum seekers.
Folate supplementation during pregnancy and development of autism in offspring.
Testing a drug for use in elderly people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Write a 1,000-word paper that evaluates the advantages and disadvantages of the selected study design for each health issue.
Write a 1,000-word paper that evaluates the advantages and disadvantages of the selected study design for each health issue. Submit your completed assignment by the end of Module 4.
Assessment Criteria:
Knowledge and understanding of the appropriate use of epidemiological study designs (20%)
Analysis and application with synthesis of new knowledge to the strengths and weaknesses of different epidemiological study designs (30%)
Analysis and application with synthesis of new knowledge of study design characteristics to select the most appropriate to the study question (30%)
General assessment criteria (20%):
o Provides a lucid introduction o Shows a sophisticated understanding of the key issues
o Shows ability to interpret relevant information and literature in relation to chosen topic
o Demonstrates a capacity to explain and apply relevant concepts
o Shows evidence of reading beyond the required readings
o Justifies any conclusions reached with well-formed arguments and not merely assertions
o Provides a conclusion or summary o Correctly uses academic writing, presentation and grammar:
Complies with academic standards of legibility, referencing and bibliographical details (including reference list)
Writes clearly, with accurate spelling and grammar as well as proper sentence and paragraph construction
Uses appropriate APA style for citing and referencing research
