Description: This course provides an overview of qualitative research methods that can complement and enhance epidemiologic studies. It is useful for epidemiologists interested in understanding the social, cultural and behavioral aspects of public health issues within communities. Students will learn how to integrate qualitative methods into epidemiology research and how to select appropriate qualitative methods. Sessions will cover: principles of qualitative research, study design, participant recruitment, data collection methods (interviews, group discussion, and observation), writing and presenting qualitative research and assessing research quality. The course uses participatory learning activities to build core skills. The course is valuable for public health professionals, staff at government and non-government agencies focusing on health and disease, graduate students and researchers. Skills learnt in this course will be valuable for conducting epidemiology research and evaluating qualitative research components in funding proposals, projects and publications.
