James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

RM8302 - Research Project in Tropical Health and Medicine

Subject Description

This subject is designed for students to conduct an independent research project in a field of tropical health and medicine and associated disciplines under the supervision of one or more advisors. The research project should be informed by the completion of, or concurrently studied, RM8301. To communicate the outcomes of their research, the students will complete a dissertation and give an oral presentation about the outcomes of their research during an exit seminar to an audience of post-graduate peers, academics and researchers. The dissertation and oral presentation should clearly define a topic, provide a rationale, set the proposed research in the context of appropriate literature, describe methods for generating, gathering and/or analysing research data and discuss issues associated with those methods. The data generated as part of the research project should be presented in an appropriate format, interpreted and discussed within the context of current knowledge. Conclusions and implications from the research (including as appropriate, implications for theory, practice and further research) should relate findings and conclusions to relevant literature and theory and offer a critical evaluation of the significance and limitations of the research.

Learning Outcomes

• conduct an independent research project using contemporary, specialised knowledge and technical skills in data collection, qualitative and/or quantitative research methods
• analyse and interpret results from a research project, and critically evaluate and synthesise results in the context of contemporary research literature to solve a complex problem
• communicate specialised knowledge, ideas and arguments accurately, coherently and creatively to a variety of audiences through written manuscripts and oral presentations
• demonstrate responsibility and accountability for future professional development requirements based on reflection on current skills, knowledge and attitudes
• demonstrate a high standard of ethical conduct in their research exercising autonomy, responsibility, accountability and welldeveloped judgement

Subject Assessment

• Oral > Presentation 1 - (20%) - Individual
• Written > Thesis/dissertation - (80%) - Individual
• Written > Project plan - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

None

Assumed Knowledge:  Understanding of relevant research methods and analysis required for independent research

Availabilities