Epidemiology and Biostatistics 2

This unit builds on Epidemiology and Biostatistics 1 to extend on students’ understanding, application and interpretation of fundamental epidemiologic and biostatistical concepts. Students will develop the capability to identify, differentiate, select and apply biostatistical concepts as appropriate and interpret the output of biostatistical tests. This capability will enable students to critically analyse epidemiological studies and identify the strengths and limitations of epidemiological approaches. This unit explores study designs, including cross-sectional and longitudinal studies and innovations such as natural experiments to analyse and describe causality using observational data. Students will describe the determinants of significant population health problems. Students will also learn to identify and differentiate sources of bias and approaches to reducing bias or undertaking sensitivity analyses to better understand the impact of bias. The unit provides students opportunities to use statistical software programs to conduct biostatistical analysis of data.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. Compute and interpret inferential statistics including the outcome of biostatistical tests and demonstrate the skill to identify, differentiate, select, and apply biostatistical concepts as appropriate;
2. Critique the strengths and limitations of different epidemiologic approaches and study designs including cross-sectional and longitudinal studies and natural experiments;
3. Undertake descriptive analyses of the determinants of health among diverse populations, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people;
4. Design and undertake analysis of data using statistical software programs and interpret results; and
5. Explicate relevant priorities for future research and relevance to existing public health policy.