Introduction to Occupational Health Rese
Full course description
In week 1 (OHS4014), students will be introduced into three basic types of occupational health research methods: empirical analytical research (with etiologic research and experimental designs using questionnaires, observations and health measurements), interpretative research (focusing on stakeholder perspectives) and policy research (using diverse methods such as document analysis, interviews, surveys). These research methods will be discussed in the context of developments in health and labour participation, which have various implications for research methodology. As the working population becomes more diverse, we need new measures for new exposures, and we need to change the focus to outcomes beyond labour participation and disease, e.g. (positive) health, financial situation, work-life balance, and type of contract.
Course objectives
Investigator
- Describe the basic research methodologies (empirical-analytical research; interpretative research and policy research) and basic knowledge on when to use which methodology;
- Describe the implications of the contemporary developments for choosing the right research population and data collection methods;
- Search academic scientific literature (more in-depth search skills to what learned in WHC4001);
- Relate facts and moral judgement to formulate conclusions;
- Have basic ability to align research topic and research method;
Communicator
- Discuss effectively with fellow students and teaching staff with various backgrounds during online and on campus meetings (including asking questions, answering questions, presenting);