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Title Epidemiology I: Introduction to epidemiology
Course number 3078
Programme Epidemiologi
Language English
Credits 1.5
Date 2023-02-06 -- 2023-02-15
Responsible KI department Institutionen för global folkhälsa
Specific entry requirements
Purpose of the course The aim of the course is to give an introduction to epidemiological theory and practice.
Intended learning outcomes After successfully completing this course students are expected to be able to:
- discuss the contribution of epidemiology to science and give examples of the advancements in the field,
- reason about classification of exposure, outcome and covariates in epidemiological studies,
- estimate and in a general way interpret measures of disease occurrence and measures of association, and describe how a specific measure is governed by the study design.
- explain strengths and weaknesses of common epidemiological study designs, with a specific focus on cohort studies.
- identify and explain possible sources of bias in epidemiological studies.
- describe theoretical models for causation and discuss the principles of causal mechanisms.
- apply knowledge of epidemiological concepts when critically reviewing scientific literature.

Intended learning outcomes are classified according to Bloom's taxonomy: knowledge, comprehension, application, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation (Bloom, 1956, extended by Anderson and Krathwohl, 2001).
Contents of the course The course gives an introduction to epidemiological theory and practice. It comprises basic principles regarding design, interpretation, and analysis of epidemiological studies. It introduces the concept of causation, concepts related to measures of disease occurrence and measures of association, common designs for epidemiological studies (with main focus on cohort studies), and the role of bias.
Teaching and learning activities The course focuses on active learning, i.e. putting knowledge into practice and critically reflecting upon the knowledge, rather than memorising facts. Different strategies for teaching and learning will be used, such as lectures, group discussions and various forms of group exercises on selected topics.
Compulsory elements The individual examination (summative assessment) is compulsory.
Examination To pass the course, the student has to show that the learning outcomes have been achieved. Assessments methods used are group assignments (formative assessments) along with an individual examination (summative assessment). The examination is viewed as contributing to the development of knowledge, rather than as a test of knowledge. Students who do not obtain a passing grade in the first examination will be offered a second chance to resubmit the examination within two months of the final day of the course. Students who do not obtain a passing grade at the first two examinations will be given top priority for admission the next time the course is offered.
Literature and other teaching material Rothman KJ. Epidemiology: An Introduction. 2nd ed. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press; 2012.

Scientific articles will be distributed before and during the course.
Number of students 8 - 25
Selection of students Eligible doctoral students will be prioritized according to 1) the relevance of the course syllabus for the applicant’s doctoral project (according to written information), 2) date for registration as a doctoral student (priority given to earlier registration date). To be considered, submit a completed application form. Give all information requested, including a short description of current research training and motivation for attending, as well as an account of previous courses taken.
More information The course is extended over time in order to promote reflection and reinforce learning. Course dates are February 6, 8, 10, 13 and 15.
Additional course leader
Latest course evaluation Course evaluation report
Course responsible Renee Gardner
Institutionen för global folkhälsa

Renee.Gardner@ki.se
Contact person Veronique Henriksson
Institutionen för global folkhälsa

veronique.henriksson@ki.se