Paediatrics (University of Auckland, New Zealand)

Unit Code

01545

Department/Institution Offering Unit

Division of Paediatrics
University of Auckland
Private Bag 92019
Auckland
New Zealand

web: www.auckland.ac.nz

Unit Points

Research Points: 87.5

Coursework Points: 12.5

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Contacts

Unit Coordinator/s:

Prof Ed Mitchell
University Of Auckland
Private Bag 92019
Auckland
New Zealand

tel: +64 9 373 7599 ext 86431
fax: +64 9 373 7486
email: e.mitchell@auckland.ac.nz

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Overall Objectives

• to review the literature about the topic (Medline searches, meta-analysis)
• to undertake research project (communication skills with parents and their children)
• to analyse the project (simple descriptive statistics)
• to report the project (report writing)

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Content

Coursework: Intermediate Epidemiology and Biostatistics

Research: The Division of Paediatrics aims to promote the health and well-being of children. Based at Starship, Middlemore and National Women's hospitals, the division is also involved in promoting child health at a community level. Renowned for its strengths in researching areas such as cot death, infectious diseases, asthma, diabetes and endocrinology, the division has an international reputation for the quality of its research. In recognition of this quality, New Zealand's National Child Health Research Foundation currently sponsors a chair in child health within the division.The Division contributes to both undergraduate and postgraduate health professional education.The Division has a staff of over 50 researchers, clinicians and administrators.

Sample Research Topics:

Professor Mitchell's research group undertakes research in a variety of child health issues, such as sudden infant death syndrome, asthma, growth, development, motor co-ordination disorders. The specific project that the student will undertake is dependent on current funding. We endeavour to provide students with opportunities to work with children and their families, as well as learning research skills.

In 2007/2008 we will be undertaking 2 major studies:

1. The assessment of 600 11 year old children. This longitudinal study is looking at their growth and development, and in particular the factors affecting obesity.
2. Sleep studies of 3 month infants that have been exposed in utero to methamphetamine, tobacco or control infants.

Both studies provide opportunities to communicate with parents and assess their children.

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Assessment Breakdown

Research Component: 87.5 points
Research Report (up to 9,000 words): 75%
Oral presentation: 10%
Superviser's evaluation, which includes aspects such as attendance at weekly research meetings: 15%

Coursework Component: 12.5 points
Intermediate Epidemiolgy and Biostatistics will be assessed as per subject description.

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Student Numbers

Number of places available:
2

Prospective students please note: to be eligible for any overseas AMS unit, you must have attained an aggregate of at least 70% in the University of Melbourne medical course.