Masterclass | Using critical social science theory in qualitative health research

This one-day course will introduce participants to the value and use of critical social science theory in qualitative health research.

We will provide a brief introduction to critical perspectives from social science and philosophy that have a bearing on health research and practice, including concepts of power and ‘situated knowledges’ (Haraway 1988). Through a focused case study on Evidence-Based Medicine, we will then show how such concepts can be applied to interrogate taken-for-granted assumptions in biomedicine. Participants will also learn practical skills in doing theory-driven qualitative research, including how to read a theoretical text, and how to approach theory-driven analysis.

The day will combine a short lecture, a case study session with Trish Greenhalgh, and a practical session that offers students tools to critically examine a piece of health policy using a practice-based and/or discourse lens. Students will also have the chance to discuss the role of theory in their own research.

This masterclass will particularly benefit those who have some experience of qualitative research but who may not yet be confident in considering the theoretical underpinnings of research problems or using social science theory to analyse and make sense of data.

Please note, this (free) course has limited capacity and will be organised on a first-come first-serve basis. You can register here: https://forms.office.com/e/KbmfvdGaev