Discussion: Research Design and Methods MD-3 Many times, research design and methods are chosen simultaneously, depending on the study population, the purpose of the study, the variables, and the time frame within which data on these variables is to be collected.
There are a number of different advantages for using secondary data to answer research questions, such as lower cost and timeliness. However, researchers and public health practitioners must be aware of the challenges and limitations that existing datasets may pose to their research.
For this Discussion, you will select a published study on public health prevalence or incidence that uses secondary data and review its study design and methods.
To prepare: • Read this week’s Learning Resources. • Research the Library and select a published study on public health prevalence or incidence that uses secondary data.
Article to use:
Jones, R. K., & Jerman, J. (2017). Population Group Abortion Rates and Lifetime Incidence of Abortion: United States, 2008–2014. American Journal of Public Health, 107(12), 1904– 1909.
Write a 3- to 4-paragraph evaluation of the published study you selected. Include the following: • A brief description of the study you selected including research question • An explanation of the study design • An explanation of the dataset used in study • Identify dependent and independent variables used • An evaluation of whether the selected study design, methods, and secondary data sources were the most appropriate (provide your rationale).
Please support your writing based on the below resources and current literature. Use APA 7 formatting and to cite your resources.
References
Doolan DM, & Froelicher ES. (2009). Using an existing data set to answer new research questions: a methodological review. Research & Theory for Nursing Practice, 23(3), 203–215.
Fink, A. (2013a). Research design, validity, and best available evidence. In Evidence-based public health practice (pp. 107–158). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.
Smith, P. M., Stock, S. R., McLeod, C. B., Koehoorn, M., Marchand, A., & Mustard, C. A. (2010). Research opportunities using administrative databases and existing surveys for new knowledge in occupational health and safety in Canada, Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia. Canadian Journal of Public Health = Revue Canadienne de Sante Publique, 101 Suppl 1, S46–S52.
