Nutrition Research Methodology

About this course

Expected learning outcomes

The aim of the course is introduce the trainees into the basic principles of research methodology including the design of epidemiological and clinical trials, the use of research tools to collect data, issues regarding bioethics, as well as issues related to data analysis and interpretation. Participation at the learning labs will enhance the application of the theoretical knowledge into practice.

In the context of this course: •The trainee acquires knowledge in the design and interpretation of nutritional epidemiological studies. •The trainee understands the importance of evidence-based nutrition and dietetic practice and how to best apply international and national recommendations in disease prevention and dietary management. •Finally the trainee learns to work harmoniously in groups, to review and appraise successfully the scientific literature and to develop presentation and writing skills.

Indicative Syllabus

    The content gives emphasis on the use and applications of research methodology on nutrition. Specifically, the course covers the following topics: 

    • Introduction to scientific research
    • Research methodology: research hypothesis, research protocol, sample and population, errors, pilot study. 
    • Epidemiological studies: cross sectional, case-control and cohort studies
    • Clinical trials 
    • Systematic reviews and meta-analysis
    • Bioethics
    • Reproducibility and validity of research tools 
    • Literature search
    • Rating the quality of evidence from nutritional epidemiological studies

    Teaching / Learning Methodology

    Support of learning process through the asynchronous platform e-class 

    Use of PowerPoint during lectures. 

    Use of specified software e.g. citation reference manager and web 

    Email, office hours (communication with students)

    Recommended Reading

    Willet W. Nutritional Epidemiology. 3rd Edition, Oxford, 2013.  Gibney, J.M., Margetts, B.M., Kearney, J.M., Arab, L., Guerrero, S.,.Public Health Nutrition. Blackwell Science Ltd., Oxford, 2004. 

    Lovegrove, JA, Hodson, L, Sharma, S. Nutrition research methodologies. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley Blackwell, 2015. 

    Friis Robert H., & Sellers Thomas A. Epidemiology and Public Health, Broken Hill Publishers LTD, Limasol, 2011.

    Prerequisites

    Start Date

    TBA

    End Date

    TBA

    Apply

    TBA

    Local Course Code

    YD19

    Cycle

    TBA

    Year of study

    TBA

    Language

    English

    Study Load

    Lectures 12 Learning lab 24 Essay 14 Reading – Overall 50 2 ECTS

    Mode of delivery

    Final written exam test. Homework and class presentations of group coursework. Attendance and participation in course discussions. Assessment criteria are referred upon e-class. Exam degrees are uploaded at e-class and exam papers are available to students

    Instructors

    Mouratidou Theodora
    Tsikalakis Georgios

    Course coordinator

    Mouratidou Theodora
    Tsikalakis Georgios

    E-mail

    tmouratidou@hmu.gr
    gtsikalakis@hmu.gr