Week Overview

Week 1 establishes the intellectual groundwork for the entire course by exploring the nature of research itself. You will examine how knowledge is produced, validated, and applied in healthcare settings. From philosophical paradigms like positivism and constructivism to the practical hierarchies of evidence that guide clinical decision-making, this week equips you with the conceptual vocabulary needed to critically evaluate any research study you encounter throughout your career.

Learning Objectives

Distinguish between major research paradigms (positivism, constructivism, pragmatism)
Explain the relationship between theory, research questions, and study design
Identify levels in the evidence hierarchy and their clinical significance
Describe the role of evidence-based practice in modern healthcare
Articulate how philosophical assumptions shape research methodology

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