This module introduces the concept of critical thinking and the 4Cs rule. Utilize this skill to identify a research question for a study or project. It also introduces the types of research questions and the research approach. 

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• Identify the purpose and components of a scientific paper.
• Utilize critical thinking to identify a research question.
• Utilize appropriate language to present the research question.

Target Audience: Public health professionals and students. 

Tier(s) and Competency Domain(s):  Tier I- Analytical/ Assessment Skills, Communication Skills

Duration: 20 minutes

Continuing Education Information:  0.5 Category 1 CHES Credits, 0.5 Continuing Competency

Format:  Web-based Training, Self-Study

Disclosures:  The planners, reviewers, and authors have no declared conflicts of interest

Created/Updated: October 2020

Author: Douglas Taren, Ph.D.; Professor of Public Health  

Dr. Taren is Editor-in-Chief for Nutrition Reviews, who works with a team that reviews cutting edge research for its readers that include nutrition scientists, biomedical researchers, clinical and dietetic practitioners, nutrition decision-makers, and advanced students of nutrition. Dr. Taren is a retired Deputy Director of the MPH program at the University of Arizona and has served as the Associate Dean for Academy Affairs. He has received several extramural grants (R25, USAID, and HRSA) to create and evaluate training programs and to fund public health projects. One of the factors that have brought together Dr. Taren’s research and public health interests together is creating the training programs for graduate students and the public health workforce that translate science to public health practice.

Arranged by: Dipanwita Das, M.Sc., M.A., ID, OD