HST253H1S - Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods in Public Health

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Welcome to a transformative journey into the heart of human practices, experiences, and stories that shape our understanding of health and well-being! Designed for eager learners, this course delves into the nuanced world of qualitative research, exploring its profound impact on diverse communities globally. You’ll learn foundational methods that creatively engage with the traditional interviews, focus groups, surveys, observations, and case studies.

Enhance your skills in critiquing research, data collection, and interpretation while emphasizing ethics, critical analysis, and social justice. Discover innovative approaches like web scraping, reader’s theatre, arts-based methods, and action research, all within a dynamic, collaborative environment featuring discussions, group work, and guest lectures. Equip yourself with a robust toolkit of qualitative research skills to tackle complex public health challenges. Join us and uncover the rich tapestry of human experiences—where every image, sound, performance, gesture, and story counts, and every voice matters.

Join a collaborative environment with peers and experts through discussions, group projects, and guest lectures, and equip yourself with the tools to make meaningful public health interventions. Let's make a difference together!

COURSE OBJECTIVES*

1.        To comprehend the foundational principles and methodologies of qualitative research, including interviews, focus groups, qualitative surveys, observations, and case studies, and their application in public health.

2.        To refine your skills to critically evaluate qualitative research studies, understanding their design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation processes in the context of public health.

3.        To acquire tools to assess the ethical considerations and best practices in qualitative research, ensuring respect and representation of diverse community voices in public health studies.