Overview
The overall module aim is to introduce students to the scope of field research for eye diseases, and the range of skills required to undertake rigorous, scientifically sound, ethical research.
This course is aimed at eye care professionals who are involved with, or aspiring to be involved with research projects and who wish to progress their skills around research question formulation, data collection, research output dissemination and to gain insight into ethical considerations in setting up research projects.
What you will learn
This module covers the principles of conducting field research in eye care. Starting from defining a research question to understanding which study methodology to use is discussed. The importance of data collection forms and how to ensure quality measures in research is part of this module. Finally, the ethical principles of conducting research and how to disseminate are covered in this module.
Upon successful completion of the module, a student will be able to:
Formulate clear research questions using the PICO principles.
Link research questions, SMART research objectives, and methods.
Apply ethical principles to the research they undertake.
Apply measures for improving the quality of field research.
Design data recording forms appropriate to the research question and methodology.
Design electronic recording form using ODK (Open Data Kit System).
Prepare data for analysis.
Assess whether quantitative/qualitative research is an appropriate approach to addressing a research question.
Apply the processes and requirements for writing up research findings for publication in peer-reviewed journals and other dissemination options.
Reflect on how to promote diverse, inclusive and equitable partnerships in eye health research.
Who should apply
This course is typically taken by eye care professionals (ophthalmologists, Ophthalmic nurses, opticians or optometrists), eye health programme managers or researchers working in related fields who are aspiring to increase their research output, quality or understanding.
Teaching methods/assessments
This course is delivered predominantly face-to-face, with lectures, seminars and discussion groups. These face-to-face sessions are supported by a range of learning resources and self-directed asynchronous exercises mediated via the LSHTM virtual learning environment (Moodle). There are typically 15-20 participants on this course each year, the majority of whom are studying for the MSc in Public Health for Eye Care at LSHTM.
Computer requirements
Participants will require a laptop which they can bring to the live sessions to access the full learning experience of this course.
Duration and timetable
This course takes place in November/December each year on Thursdays and Fridays over 3 weeks (5 teaching days and one day for the written assessment).
All sessions are delivered face-to-face for the whole day (09:30 - 12:45 and 14:00 - 17:15). Below are the dates the sessions will take place:
- Thursday 28 November
- Friday 29 November
- Thursday 5 December
- Friday 6 December
- Thursday 12 December
Assessment timeline:
- Group work assessment: submission due Thursday 12 December 17:30.
- Presentation: delivered Friday 13 December between 11:15 and 12:45.
- Timed written assessment: Friday 13 December 13:00 - 15:30 (150 mins).
Module fee
- £2,820
Applications are now open and can be made via our online application form.
Application deadline
- 1 November 2024
Visa information
Please refer to the current visa requirements for short-term study.
Entry requirements
There are no specific entry requirements for this course.
For those interested in considering the full MSc in Public Health for Eye Care, there is information on our webpage here, or an introductory video explaining about the course here with interviews of previous students giving their experiences here.