1 fraser health grant application preparation workshop © fraser health authority, 2009 the fraser...

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Fraser Health Grant Application Preparation Workshop

© Fraser Health Authority, 2009

The Fraser Health Authority (“FH”) authorizes the use, reproduction and/or modification of this publication for purposes other than commercial redistribution. In consideration for this authorization, the user agrees that any unmodified reproduction of this publication shall retain all copyright and proprietary notices. If the user modifies the content of this publication, all FH copyright notices shall be removed, however FH shall be acknowledged as the author of the source publication.

Reproduction or storage of this publication in any form by any means for the purpose of commercial redistribution is strictly prohibited.

This publication is intended to provide general information only, and should not be relied on as providing specific healthcare, legal or other professional advice. The Fraser Health Authority, and every person involved in the creation of this publication, disclaims any warranty, express or implied, as to its accuracy, completeness or currency, and disclaims all liability in respect of any actions, including the results of any actions, taken or not taken in reliance on the information contained herein.

FH Health Research Intelligence Unit FH Health Research Intelligence Unit How can we help?How can we help?

EpidemiologistEpidemiologist Specifying the research goal, Specifying the research goal,

objectives and hypothesisobjectives and hypothesis Identifying measurable outcomesIdentifying measurable outcomes Specifying the variables for Specifying the variables for

analysisanalysis Identifying sources of dataIdentifying sources of data Developing data collection tools Developing data collection tools

for quantitative or qualitative for quantitative or qualitative studiesstudies

Developing the statistical analysis Developing the statistical analysis planplan

Analyzing the dataAnalyzing the data Understanding how to use Understanding how to use

statistical software, such as SPSSstatistical software, such as SPSS

Grant Facilitator-WriterGrant Facilitator-Writer Conducting a search for funding Conducting a search for funding

opportunitiesopportunities Targeted notification of new Targeted notification of new

funding sources and deadlinesfunding sources and deadlines Identifying a research teamIdentifying a research team Preparing letters of intentPreparing letters of intent Identifying resources required for Identifying resources required for

conducting researchconducting research Formulating the research budgetFormulating the research budget Facilitating proposal Facilitating proposal

development in collaboration development in collaboration with researcherswith researchers

Understanding FH and funding Understanding FH and funding agency requirements regarding agency requirements regarding preparation of specific preparation of specific documentsdocuments

Purpose of the FH Seed GrantPurpose of the FH Seed Grant

To provide start-up funding to new FH To provide start-up funding to new FH researchers in an area that is relevant to FH.researchers in an area that is relevant to FH. Pilot studyPilot study Systematic reviewSystematic review Small scale studySmall scale study

ULTIMATE GOAL: To attain preliminary information in ULTIMATE GOAL: To attain preliminary information in order to demonstrate feasibility and justification for order to demonstrate feasibility and justification for applications to larger granting agencies, for a larger applications to larger granting agencies, for a larger scale study.scale study.

Purpose of the FH Strategic Purpose of the FH Strategic Imperatives Grant (SIG)Imperatives Grant (SIG)

To provide operating funding to FH researchers To provide operating funding to FH researchers to undertake research that addresses one of the to undertake research that addresses one of the objectives in the FH Strategic Imperativesobjectives in the FH Strategic Imperatives

To support the development of new To support the development of new collaborations and partnershipscollaborations and partnerships

ULTIMATE GOAL: To attain preliminary information in ULTIMATE GOAL: To attain preliminary information in order to demonstrate feasibility and justification for order to demonstrate feasibility and justification for applications to larger granting agencies, for a larger applications to larger granting agencies, for a larger scale study.scale study.

FH Strategic ImperativesFH Strategic Imperatives

Great workplacesGreat workplaces CapacityCapacity Quality and safetyQuality and safety IntegrationIntegration Research and academic developmentResearch and academic development Progressive partnershipsProgressive partnerships

http://www.fraserhealth.ca/AboutUs/Organization/StrategicDirection/Pages/default.aspxhttp://www.fraserhealth.ca/AboutUs/Organization/StrategicDirection/Pages/default.aspx

EligibilityEligibility

FH staff or privileged physician as principal FH staff or privileged physician as principal investigator (PI).investigator (PI).

Has never conducted research before, or Has never conducted research before, or who has never been successful at attaining who has never been successful at attaining research funding as the PI. [Seed Grant]research funding as the PI. [Seed Grant]

Ineligible ApplicantsIneligible Applicants

Applicants who have received grant funding Applicants who have received grant funding before (as the PI) [Seed Grant]before (as the PI) [Seed Grant]

Research that is normally funded by FH budget.Research that is normally funded by FH budget. Program Evaluation and Quality Improvement.Program Evaluation and Quality Improvement. Biomedical research.Biomedical research. Team building.Team building. Research for academic requirement.Research for academic requirement. Student/residency projects.Student/residency projects. Community development projects.Community development projects.

Application DeadlineApplication Deadline

June 1st, 9 am.June 1st, 9 am. Completed applications must be emailed to Completed applications must be emailed to

Magdalena Swanson, at Magdalena Swanson, at [email protected]@fraserhealth.ca

Maximum amount for Seed Grant is $5,000Maximum amount for Seed Grant is $5,000 Maximum amount for SIG is $10,000Maximum amount for SIG is $10,000

Preparing the ApplicationPreparing the Application

Application TipsApplication Tips

Plan time carefullyPlan time carefully Review the FH Research Review the FH Research

GuidelinesGuidelines Make sure your proposal fits Make sure your proposal fits

within the guidelineswithin the guidelines Follow all the rules and Follow all the rules and

requests specified in the requests specified in the Application GuidelinesApplication Guidelines

Is the proposal ethical?Is the proposal ethical?

http://www.fraserhealth.ca/Professionals/Research/Ethics/Pages/default.aspx

Application SectionsApplication SectionsApplication Sections Max # of

Pages

FH Grant Application Cover SheetAvailable at the Research Administration and Development website:http://www.fraserhealth.ca/Professionals/Research/Pages/Forms%20and%20Templates.aspx

1

Proposal:

a. Description 2

b. Team Members 1

c. Research Methods 2

d. Plan for Use of Results 1

e. Timeline 1

f. Budget and Justification 1

g. Bibliographic References As needed

Appendices: e.g. survey instruments, data collection tools, moderator’s guides

As needed

Applicant’s CV As needed

Letter of Support from FH administrative supervisor 1

APPLICATION COVER FORM FOR FH GRANT COMPETITION

Name of Applicant:

Date Received by RAD:

Position Title and Department:

Telephone: Fax: Email:

Grant Applied For: Seed Grant Strategic Imperatives Grant

Total Amount of Funding Requested:

Project Title:

List Co-Investigators, Including Position Titles, Departments, Organizations, and Email:

Administrative Supervisor’s Name, Title and Department:

Applicant’s Signature:Date:

Administrative Supervisor’s Signature:Date:

A – Description (2 pages)A – Description (2 pages)

purpose of the studybackground information including: (1) a review of the literature to explain what has been done to date in this field, with references sufficiently detailed to indicate that an adequate review of the literature had been conducted (2) size and extent of the problem and how this applies to FHjustification for studysignificance of the proposed research:

- state how the research will be used to contribute to further research in FH

- clearly state which objective(s) in the FH Strategic Imperatives will be addressed by the proposed study (SIG only)

study hypothesis (if applicable)research objectives

A – DescriptionA – DescriptionResearch Question and ObjectivesResearch Question and Objectives

Research question: States what it is you would like to Research question: States what it is you would like to studystudy

Research objectives: State what you will be doing to Research objectives: State what you will be doing to measure the research questionmeasure the research question

Research hypothesis: State what you expect to findResearch hypothesis: State what you expect to find

Example:Example: Research Question: Do children who receive the flu shot have a Research Question: Do children who receive the flu shot have a

lower incidence of influenza over the school year?lower incidence of influenza over the school year? Research Objective: To compare flu rates of immunization recipients Research Objective: To compare flu rates of immunization recipients

to a control group that did not receive the flu shot over the school to a control group that did not receive the flu shot over the school year.year.

Research Hypothesis: Children who receive flu shots have lower Research Hypothesis: Children who receive flu shots have lower incidence of influenza compared to children who did not receive flu incidence of influenza compared to children who did not receive flu shotsshots

A – DescriptionA – Description Objectives and Hypothesis Objectives and Hypothesis

What is your research question?

Be specificMake sure your question is measurableConnect your research question with your objectivesConnect objectives with hypothesisMake sure your question logically links to your design and measurement tool

A - DescriptionA - DescriptionBackground ReviewBackground Review

Literature reviews should be selective and criticalLiterature reviews should be selective and critical Reviewers do not want to read through a voluminous Reviewers do not want to read through a voluminous

working bibliography (include especially pertinent works working bibliography (include especially pertinent works and your very short evaluation of them)and your very short evaluation of them)

Should lead the reader to how you will be building upon Should lead the reader to how you will be building upon what has already been done and how your work differs what has already been done and how your work differs from theirsfrom theirs

It is important to establish what is original in your It is important to establish what is original in your approachapproach

APA format for in text citationsAPA format for in text citations

A – DescriptionA – DescriptionSignificance and Relevance to FHSignificance and Relevance to FH

Size and extent of the problem and how this applies to FHSize and extent of the problem and how this applies to FH•How many affectedHow many affected•Cost of problemCost of problem•Future trendsFuture trends•What is the benefit to FH?What is the benefit to FH?

Significance of the research Significance of the research •Relevance to health outcomesRelevance to health outcomes•Address an important questionAddress an important question•Advance knowledgeAdvance knowledge•InnovationInnovation

A – DescriptionA – DescriptionInnovationInnovation

Open up a new area Open up a new area Provide a unifying framework Provide a unifying framework Resolve a long-standing question Resolve a long-standing question Thoroughly explore an area Thoroughly explore an area Challenge existing knowledge Challenge existing knowledge Experimentally validate a theory Experimentally validate a theory Produce an efficient system Produce an efficient system Provide needed empirical data Provide needed empirical data Derive superior algorithms Derive superior algorithms Develop new methodology Develop new methodology Develop a new tool Develop a new tool

A – DescriptionA – DescriptionFuture Research and ReferencesFuture Research and References

How the research will be used to contribute to How the research will be used to contribute to further research in FHfurther research in FH What are the potential research questions that might What are the potential research questions that might

arise from completing your researcharise from completing your research

References sufficiently detailed to indicate that References sufficiently detailed to indicate that an adequate review of the literature had been an adequate review of the literature had been conductedconducted CurrentCurrent Primary sources (peer reviewed journals)Primary sources (peer reviewed journals) Review papersReview papers Limited gray literature contentLimited gray literature content

B - Team Members (1 page)B - Team Members (1 page)

Majority of the team members should be Majority of the team members should be staff/privileged physicians from FH staff/privileged physicians from FH

Knowledgeable in the content area and in research Knowledgeable in the content area and in research methods methods

For SIG: an external collaborator/partner is requiredFor SIG: an external collaborator/partner is required A profile of proposed team members, and their roles A profile of proposed team members, and their roles

and responsibilities in carrying out this researchand responsibilities in carrying out this research How many persons at what percentage/total amount How many persons at what percentage/total amount

of time and in what professional/academic of time and in what professional/academic categories will be participating in the project.categories will be participating in the project.

If the program is complex and involves people from If the program is complex and involves people from other departments or institutions, the organization of other departments or institutions, the organization of the staff and the lines of responsibility should be the staff and the lines of responsibility should be made clear. made clear.

C - Research Methods (2 pages)C - Research Methods (2 pages) Methods - the heart of the proposal and the primary Methods - the heart of the proposal and the primary

concern of the technical reviewers concern of the technical reviewers

Suggested Methods section componentsSuggested Methods section components Study design (retrospective, experimental, survey)Study design (retrospective, experimental, survey) Study SampleStudy Sample

• Sample selection (who/what is included/excluded)Sample selection (who/what is included/excluded)• Sample Size (how many are needed and why)Sample Size (how many are needed and why)

Measures (what are your measures of primary and secondary Measures (what are your measures of primary and secondary interest)interest)

ProcedureProcedure• Recruitment of sampleRecruitment of sample• Data CollectionData Collection

Data AnalysisData Analysis• Plan for analyzing the dataPlan for analyzing the data• What measures will be analyzedWhat measures will be analyzed• Means of evaluating the dataMeans of evaluating the data

C - Research MethodsC - Research Methods

Can the design answer the research question?Can the design answer the research question? Be certain that a connection between research question, objectives and Be certain that a connection between research question, objectives and

research method is evidentresearch method is evident

Is the sample size justified (power calculation if applicable)Is the sample size justified (power calculation if applicable) For pilot studies, it may be a matter of convenience and budget allowanceFor pilot studies, it may be a matter of convenience and budget allowance Retrospective chart reviews are usually cost and time efficient and may be Retrospective chart reviews are usually cost and time efficient and may be

amenable to a full power calculationamenable to a full power calculation

Method of subject recruitment, if applicable Method of subject recruitment, if applicable Subject recruitment methods must meet the FHREB’s requirements for subject Subject recruitment methods must meet the FHREB’s requirements for subject

recruitment recruitment Refer to FHREB Guidance Notes for Initial Ethical Review atRefer to FHREB Guidance Notes for Initial Ethical Review athttp://www.fraserhealth.ca/Professionals/Research/Pages/Forms%20and%20Temhttp://www.fraserhealth.ca/Professionals/Research/Pages/Forms%20and%20Templates.aspxplates.aspx

C - Research MethodsC - Research Methods

Proposed data collection method Proposed data collection method Is it feasible?Is it feasible? Will it likely yield the needed data?Will it likely yield the needed data?

Data collection toolsData collection tools Justify use of questionnaires, surveysJustify use of questionnaires, surveys Use validated instruments where possibleUse validated instruments where possible Attach data collection tools, survey instruments, moderator guides in Attach data collection tools, survey instruments, moderator guides in

appendixappendix

Statistical or qualitative analysis plan, as applicableStatistical or qualitative analysis plan, as applicable Is there sufficient description of plan?Is there sufficient description of plan?

Statistical Test SelectionStatistical Test Selection

Selecting the appropriate statistical test requires several Selecting the appropriate statistical test requires several stepssteps

Test selection should be based on:Test selection should be based on:

What is your goal?What is your goal?: Description? Comparison? Prediction? : Description? Comparison? Prediction? Quantify association? Prove effectiveness? Prove Quantify association? Prove effectiveness? Prove causality?causality?

What kind of data have you collected?What kind of data have you collected? What are the levels of What are the levels of data (nominal, ordinal, or continuous)? Was your sample data (nominal, ordinal, or continuous)? Was your sample randomly selected?randomly selected?

Is your data normally distributed?Is your data normally distributed? Should you use a Should you use a parametric or non-parametric test?parametric or non-parametric test?

What are the assumptions of the statistical test you would What are the assumptions of the statistical test you would like to use?like to use? Does the data meet these assumptions?Does the data meet these assumptions?

Type of Data

Goal Measurement Normal Population

Ordinal, or Non-Normal Population

Binomial-Two Possible Outcomes

Survival Time

Describe one group Mean, SD Median, interquartile range

Proportion Kaplan Meier survival curve

Compare one group to a hypothetical value

One-sample t test Wilcoxon test Chi-squareorBinomial test **

Compare two unpaired groups

Unpaired t test Mann-Whitney test Fisher's test(chi-square for large samples)

Log-rank test or Mantel-Haenszel*

Compare two paired groups

Paired t test Wilcoxon test McNemar's test Conditional proportional hazards regression*

Compare three or more unmatched groups

One-way ANOVA Kruskal-Wallis test Chi-square test Cox proportional hazard regression**

Compare three or more matched groups

Repeated-measures ANOVA

Friedman test Cochrane Q** Conditional proportional hazards regression**

Quantify association between two variables

Pearson correlation Spearman correlation Contingency coefficients**

Predict value from another measured variable

Simple linear regressionorNonlinear regression

Nonparametric regression**

Simple logistic regression*

Cox proportional hazard regression*

Predict value from several measured or binomial variables

Multiple linear regression*orMultiple nonlinear regression**

Multiple logistic regression*

Cox proportional hazard regression*

D - Plan for Use of Results (1 page)D - Plan for Use of Results (1 page)

Identification of specific granting agency that Identification of specific granting agency that the applicant intends to apply to for further the applicant intends to apply to for further funding once the exploratory, pilot work is funding once the exploratory, pilot work is complete, including date of intended complete, including date of intended applicationapplication

Identify one or more funding agencies where it is Identify one or more funding agencies where it is possible that you might obtain fundingpossible that you might obtain funding

Do not list national funding agencies unless you Do not list national funding agencies unless you have strong linkage with an academic partnerhave strong linkage with an academic partner

http://www.fraserhealth.ca/Professionals/Research/Investigator/Documents/HIURequestForm.doc

FH HRIU consultation request form contains a listing of funding agencies.

Community of Science Funding Opportunities Database• web based• 400,000 listings

Contact Magdalena Swanson

FH Funding Resources

FH News has monthly updates of new funding opportunities

D - Plan for Use of ResultsD - Plan for Use of Results

Who will receive the results Who will receive the results and by what methodand by what method

WhoWho• Departments, programs, Departments, programs,

stakeholders, executive, other stakeholders, executive, other Health Authorities, Health Authorities, Government, other Government, other researchersresearchers

MethodMethod• Written Reports, FH Written Reports, FH

communications, rounds, communications, rounds, media releasesmedia releases

Future plans for Future plans for presentation presentation

• Publication, conference Publication, conference presentationpresentation

E – Timeline (1 page)E – Timeline (1 page)

Precise description of key dates from Precise description of key dates from beginning to end of study completionbeginning to end of study completion

Components may include: Ethics review, Components may include: Ethics review, recruitment, conducting the intervention, collecting recruitment, conducting the intervention, collecting the data, analyzing the data, reporting.the data, analyzing the data, reporting.

Additional or fewer components may be required Additional or fewer components may be required depending on the nature of the research.depending on the nature of the research.

Should cover the entire period of fundingShould cover the entire period of funding 1 year (from time award is received)1 year (from time award is received) May extend beyond the 1 year award period to May extend beyond the 1 year award period to

account for additional presentations, publications account for additional presentations, publications etc.etc.

E - TimelineE - Timeline

Narrative timeline may be supplemented with visual representation.

F – Budget and JustificationF – Budget and Justification(1 page)(1 page)

Prepare budget in consultation with:Prepare budget in consultation with: FH Human Resources if it is intended to hire grant staff and FH Human Resources if it is intended to hire grant staff and

contractors before finalizing budgets. Note that benefits and contractors before finalizing budgets. Note that benefits and future salary increases may have to be accounted for in the future salary increases may have to be accounted for in the budget. budget.

FH Departments/Areas, such as Decision Support, Health FH Departments/Areas, such as Decision Support, Health Records, Laboratory/Pathology, Medical Imaging, Operating Records, Laboratory/Pathology, Medical Imaging, Operating Room, Patient Care and Pharmacy if any of these will be Room, Patient Care and Pharmacy if any of these will be asked to provide research-related services. For information asked to provide research-related services. For information on the process for obtaining Departmental Agreement for on the process for obtaining Departmental Agreement for Providing Research-related Services (DAR), see the Providing Research-related Services (DAR), see the DAR web pageDAR web page. .

http://www.fraserhealth.ca/Initiatives/Research/Department+Agreement.htmhttp://www.fraserhealth.ca/Initiatives/Research/Department+Agreement.htm

F - Budget and Justification F - Budget and Justification

PersonnelPersonnel research staff – data collection, data entry, focus group research staff – data collection, data entry, focus group

moderators, transcription, research coordinators.moderators, transcription, research coordinators. backfill of existing positions to provide “protected” time, clerical backfill of existing positions to provide “protected” time, clerical

support.support. SuppliesSupplies

Office supplies, standardized questionnaires, audio recording Office supplies, standardized questionnaires, audio recording equipment, software for analyzing qualitative focus group and equipment, software for analyzing qualitative focus group and interview data, library acquisitions, computer and other interview data, library acquisitions, computer and other information services provided to FH staff.information services provided to FH staff.

Data Collection ActivitiesData Collection Activities Printing, photocopying, postage for mailing.Printing, photocopying, postage for mailing.

F - Budget and Justification F - Budget and Justification Other allowable itemsOther allowable items

Research subjects (modest incentives)Research subjects (modest incentives) Costs related to consultation and planning activities (eg., Costs related to consultation and planning activities (eg.,

transportation and parking expenses)transportation and parking expenses) Travel costs outside FH areaTravel costs outside FH area FH Department Services (Health Records, Anatomical FH Department Services (Health Records, Anatomical

Pathology, Decision Support)Pathology, Decision Support)See FH Department Agreement Form See FH Department Agreement Form http://www.fraserhealth.ca/Initiatives/Research/http://www.fraserhealth.ca/Initiatives/Research/

Forms+and+Templates.htmForms+and+Templates.htm

Ineligible ExpensesIneligible Expenses Computer hardwareComputer hardware Conference registrationsConference registrations Food and beveragesFood and beverages

Budget JustificationBudget Justification

Explains how the money Explains how the money will be spent and justifies will be spent and justifies the need for the requested the need for the requested amountamount

Without a good budget Without a good budget justification, a funder may justification, a funder may reduce the amount of the reduce the amount of the award, potentially limiting award, potentially limiting the feasibility of the projectthe feasibility of the project

Budget TipsBudget Tips More detail is better than lessMore detail is better than less Prepare a line-item budget as containing narrative describing Prepare a line-item budget as containing narrative describing

each line-item cost in detail (justification)each line-item cost in detail (justification) Don’t round outDon’t round out Provide bids and estimates for consultants, equipment, supplies Provide bids and estimates for consultants, equipment, supplies

etc.etc. Don’t pad or economize the budget – good reviewers know the Don’t pad or economize the budget – good reviewers know the

cost of goods and servicescost of goods and services

Important AttachmentsImportant Attachments

ReferencesReferences No page limit No page limit Lists text and information included in proposal Lists text and information included in proposal

from other authors/sourcesfrom other authors/sources APA formatAPA format

http://www.wooster.edu/psychology/apa-crib.html#Intehttp://www.wooster.edu/psychology/apa-crib.html#Intextxt

http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/

Curriculum VitaeCurriculum Vitae

ComponentsComponents Academic preparationAcademic preparation Positions/AppointmentsPositions/Appointments Awards/ScholarshipsAwards/Scholarships GrantsGrants CollaborationCollaboration PublicationsPublications PresentationsPresentations

Letter of Support (1 page)

FH Administrative Supervisor

Statement of awareness of the projectStatement of support for the projectStatement of assurance of applicant’s ability and access to resources to carry out the proposed studySupervisor should read the proposal and budget in advance of signing the letter

Appendices

Include•Data collection tools •Survey instruments•Moderator’s guides•Questionnaires•Interview scripts•Bids and quotes to support budget

Writing TipsWriting Tips Organize the content for logical flow of ideasOrganize the content for logical flow of ideas Use ‘lead’ statements or subheadings as an opening Use ‘lead’ statements or subheadings as an opening

to any sectionto any section state briefly the most important concept and then provide state briefly the most important concept and then provide

background/contextbackground/context Check grammar and tenseCheck grammar and tense Cut wordinessCut wordiness Eliminate jargonEliminate jargon Avoid or limit acronymsAvoid or limit acronyms Obtain feedback from peersObtain feedback from peers

This will prevent your proposal from looking like………This will prevent your proposal from looking like………

Format RequirementsFormat Requirements

Microsoft Word or PDF format preferred [please Microsoft Word or PDF format preferred [please password protect]password protect]

Times New Roman font (regular), minimum 12 point;Times New Roman font (regular), minimum 12 point; Text, single-spaced;Text, single-spaced; Pages single-sided;Pages single-sided; 2 cm (.75 inch) margin on all sides of each page;2 cm (.75 inch) margin on all sides of each page; A header on each page with the Applicant’s name in A header on each page with the Applicant’s name in

the top left-hand corner and the page number on the the top left-hand corner and the page number on the top right; top right;

References must use the American Psychological References must use the American Psychological Association [APA]Association [APA]

All done?All done?

Proof read all documentsProof read all documents Have someone else proof readHave someone else proof read

ColleagueColleague Lay personLay person

Check that all components have been Check that all components have been assembledassembled

Email application to Magdalena SwansonEmail application to Magdalena Swanson [email protected]@fraserhealth.ca Deadline: 9:00 am, Monday June 1st, 2009Deadline: 9:00 am, Monday June 1st, 2009

Now you can take a break……Now you can take a break……

….before the next grant deadline

The Review ProcessThe Review Process

FUNDING

FH Peer Review CommitteeFH Peer Review Committee

Committee Member Title and Affiliation

Dr. Arun Chockalingam Professor and Director of Continuing Public Health Education, SFU

Rahul Chhokar Epidemiologist, Health Promotion and Prevention, FH

Dr. Fabio Feldman Manager, Seniors Fall and Injury Prevention, FH

Dr. Anton Grunfeld Chief, FH Department of Emergency Medicine

David Keen Regional Director, Workplace Health People and Organizational Development, FH

Kemi Odegbile Director, Health Promotion and Prevention for North Communities, FH

Gurjeet Sivia Decision Support, FH

Michael Wasdell Epidemiologist, FH

The ReviewThe Review

Review of the ProposalReview of the Proposal Significance and relevance to health Significance and relevance to health Knowledge of the field (cited literature)Knowledge of the field (cited literature) Clear, testable hypothesis or central Clear, testable hypothesis or central

research problem, appropriate methodsresearch problem, appropriate methods Originality and innovation in concept or Originality and innovation in concept or

approachapproach Feasibility of work planFeasibility of work plan

IndicatorsIndicators Research ProjectResearch Project

Priority will be given to research studies that focus on studying health Priority will be given to research studies that focus on studying health outcomes related to access, quality [effectiveness and safety], and efficiency. outcomes related to access, quality [effectiveness and safety], and efficiency. [Seed Grant][Seed Grant]

Does the proposed research study address one or more objectives of the FH Does the proposed research study address one or more objectives of the FH Strategic Imperatives? [SIG]Strategic Imperatives? [SIG]

Does the proposal involve a new partner or collaborator? (Preference will be Does the proposal involve a new partner or collaborator? (Preference will be given to those applicants who form new collaborations or partnerships with given to those applicants who form new collaborations or partnerships with individuals from an academic organization) [SIG]individuals from an academic organization) [SIG]

Is the proposal well-written and focused? Is the purpose of the research clear Is the proposal well-written and focused? Is the purpose of the research clear and has relevance to FH’s needs been established. (Note: It is the and has relevance to FH’s needs been established. (Note: It is the applicant’s responsibility to write the proposal.) applicant’s responsibility to write the proposal.)

Does the background literature review support the need for the research?Does the background literature review support the need for the research? Has a clear hypothesis/research question been generated? Has a clear hypothesis/research question been generated? Are the ideas put forward innovative/original? Are the ideas put forward innovative/original? Can the research question/hypothesis be answered with the proposed Can the research question/hypothesis be answered with the proposed

research design?research design? Does the applicant have the ability to be an independent researcher with Does the applicant have the ability to be an independent researcher with

respect to project feasibility given the resources and support available? respect to project feasibility given the resources and support available?

IndicatorsIndicators

Letter of Support Letter of Support Does the letter of support indicate an awareness of the applicant’s Does the letter of support indicate an awareness of the applicant’s

research and indicate specific support for it?research and indicate specific support for it?

Applicant’s Ability to be an Independent Researcher Applicant’s Ability to be an Independent Researcher Has the applicant made presentations or participated in related Has the applicant made presentations or participated in related

activities? activities? Has the applicant shown professional leadership and Has the applicant shown professional leadership and

accomplishment in their field in FH or elsewhere? accomplishment in their field in FH or elsewhere? Has the applicant shown an interest in research through the Has the applicant shown an interest in research through the

development of other skills and additional research activities? (e.g. development of other skills and additional research activities? (e.g. – has the applicant attended FH or other workshops on learning – has the applicant attended FH or other workshops on learning how to conduct research?)how to conduct research?)

Is there evidence of collaboration with other FH or non-FH Is there evidence of collaboration with other FH or non-FH researchers in this field?researchers in this field?

The ReviewThe Review

Applicants will be rated on the following Applicants will be rated on the following scale for each of 12-13 indicators scale for each of 12-13 indicators

55 = =excellentexcellent 44=very good=very good 33=average=average 22=needs improvement=needs improvement 11=incomplete=incomplete 0=absent or inappropriate0=absent or inappropriate

Scoring SystemAverage of Indicator Ratings

Range Descriptor

Fundable 4.5-4.9 Outstanding

4.0-4.4 Excellent

3.5-3.9 Very Good

Seldom Funded 3.0-3.9 Acceptable but low priority

Not Fundable 2.5-2.9 Needs revision

2.0-2.4 Needs major revision

1.0-1.9 Seriously Flawed

0 Rejected

Common reviewer complaintsCommon reviewer complaints

Application is not complete or completed incorrectlyApplication is not complete or completed incorrectly Text is small dense and difficult to read– does not Text is small dense and difficult to read– does not

conform with formatting guidelines conform with formatting guidelines Improper citations, pagination, table references and Improper citations, pagination, table references and

other forms of poor organization other forms of poor organization Too much narrative with unnecessary or irrelevant Too much narrative with unnecessary or irrelevant

information information Too much jargonToo much jargon

Why Proposals are RejectedWhy Proposals are Rejected

73%

55%

16%

58%

Approach

Investigator

Other

Problem

University of Michigan Proposal Writer's Guide by Don Thackrey

http://www.research.umich.edu/proposals/PWG/pwgrejected.html?print

Why Proposals are RejectedWhy Proposals are Rejected A. Problem (58 percent)A. Problem (58 percent)

The problem is not of sufficient importance or is unlikely to produce The problem is not of sufficient importance or is unlikely to produce any new or useful information. (33.1) any new or useful information. (33.1)

The proposed research is based on a hypothesis that rests on The proposed research is based on a hypothesis that rests on insufficient evidence, is doubtful, or is unsound. (8.9) insufficient evidence, is doubtful, or is unsound. (8.9)

The problem is more complex than the investigator appears to The problem is more complex than the investigator appears to realize. (8.1) realize. (8.1)

The problem has only local significance, or is one of production or The problem has only local significance, or is one of production or control, or otherwise fails to fall sufficiently clearly within the general control, or otherwise fails to fall sufficiently clearly within the general field of health-related research. (4.8) field of health-related research. (4.8)

The problem is scientifically premature and warrants, at most, only a The problem is scientifically premature and warrants, at most, only a pilot study. (3.1) pilot study. (3.1)

The research as proposed is overly involved, with too many The research as proposed is overly involved, with too many elements under simultaneous investigation. (3.0) elements under simultaneous investigation. (3.0)

The description of the nature of the research and of its significance The description of the nature of the research and of its significance leaves the proposal nebulous and diffuse and without a clear leaves the proposal nebulous and diffuse and without a clear research aim. (2.6)research aim. (2.6)

B. Approach (73 percent)B. Approach (73 percent)

The proposed tests, or methods, or scientific procedures are The proposed tests, or methods, or scientific procedures are unsuited to the stated objective. (34.7) unsuited to the stated objective. (34.7)

The description of the approach is too nebulous, diffuse, and lacking The description of the approach is too nebulous, diffuse, and lacking in clarity to permit adequate evaluation. (28.8) in clarity to permit adequate evaluation. (28.8)

The overall design of the study has not been carefully thought out. The overall design of the study has not been carefully thought out. (14.7) (14.7)

The statistical aspects of the approach have not been given The statistical aspects of the approach have not been given sufficient consideration. (8.1) sufficient consideration. (8.1)

The approach lacks scientific imagination. (7.4) The approach lacks scientific imagination. (7.4) Controls are either inadequately conceived or inadequately Controls are either inadequately conceived or inadequately

described. (6.8) described. (6.8) The material the investigator proposes to use is unsuited to the The material the investigator proposes to use is unsuited to the

objective of the study or is difficult to obtain. (3.8) objective of the study or is difficult to obtain. (3.8) The number of observations is unsuitable. (2.5) The number of observations is unsuitable. (2.5) The equipment contemplated is outmoded or otherwise unsuitable. The equipment contemplated is outmoded or otherwise unsuitable.

(1.0)(1.0)


C. Investigator (55 percent)C. Investigator (55 percent)

The investigator does not have adequate experience or training for The investigator does not have adequate experience or training for this research. (32.6) this research. (32.6)

The investigator appears to be unfamiliar with recent pertinent The investigator appears to be unfamiliar with recent pertinent literature or methods. (13.7) literature or methods. (13.7)

The investigator's previously published work in this field does not The investigator's previously published work in this field does not inspire confidence. (12.6) inspire confidence. (12.6)

The investigator proposes to rely too heavily on insufficiently The investigator proposes to rely too heavily on insufficiently experienced associates. (5.0) experienced associates. (5.0)

The investigator is spreading himself too thin; he will be more The investigator is spreading himself too thin; he will be more productive if he concentrates on fewer projects. (3.8) productive if he concentrates on fewer projects. (3.8)

The investigator needs more liaison with colleagues in this field or in The investigator needs more liaison with colleagues in this field or in collateral fields. (1.7)collateral fields. (1.7)


D. Other (16 percent)D. Other (16 percent)

The requirements for equipment or personnel are unrealistic. (10.1) The requirements for equipment or personnel are unrealistic. (10.1) It appears that other responsibilities would prevent devotion of It appears that other responsibilities would prevent devotion of

sufficient time and attention to this research. (3.0) sufficient time and attention to this research. (3.0) The institutional setting is unfavorable. (2.3) The institutional setting is unfavorable. (2.3) Research grants to the investigator, now in force, are adequate in Research grants to the investigator, now in force, are adequate in

scope and amount to cover the proposed research. (1.5)scope and amount to cover the proposed research. (1.5)


The Rejected ProposalThe Rejected Proposal

Review commentsReview comments Identify areas for improvementIdentify areas for improvement Make changesMake changes Resubmit to the same or another funding Resubmit to the same or another funding

agencyagency

Differentiation Between QI, Differentiation Between QI, Program Evaluation and Program Evaluation and

ResearchResearch

FH Research PolicyFH Research Policy

Research involving human subjects is defined as Research involving human subjects is defined as any systematic investigation (including pilot any systematic investigation (including pilot studies, exploratory studies, and academic studies, exploratory studies, and academic course work assignments) designed to course work assignments) designed to contribute to contribute to generalizable knowledgegeneralizable knowledge. . Generalizable knowledge consists of facts, Generalizable knowledge consists of facts, theories, principles or relationships, or the theories, principles or relationships, or the accumulation of information on which they are accumulation of information on which they are based, that can be corroborated by accepted based, that can be corroborated by accepted scientific methods of observation and inference. scientific methods of observation and inference.

FH Research PolicyFH Research PolicyResearch includes:Research includes:• • obtaining data about a living individual through obtaining data about a living individual through

intervention (e.g. a medical procedure) or interaction intervention (e.g. a medical procedure) or interaction (e.g. an interview) with the individual, or the obtaining of (e.g. an interview) with the individual, or the obtaining of private personal information about the individual;private personal information about the individual;

• • secondary use of data (e.g. information, such as medical secondary use of data (e.g. information, such as medical records, collected for purposes other than the proposed records, collected for purposes other than the proposed research) that contains identifying information about a research) that contains identifying information about a living individual, or data linkage through which living living individual, or data linkage through which living individuals may become identifiable;individuals may become identifiable;

• • naturalistic observation, except the observation of naturalistic observation, except the observation of individuals in contexts in which it can be expected that individuals in contexts in which it can be expected that the participants are seeking public visibility;the participants are seeking public visibility;

• • the use of human remains, cadavers, tissues, biological the use of human remains, cadavers, tissues, biological fluids, embryos or foetuses. fluids, embryos or foetuses.

FH Research PolicyFH Research Policy

The types of studies excluded from the definition of The types of studies excluded from the definition of ‘research’ include:‘research’ include:

• projects, conducted for internal FH use only, that projects, conducted for internal FH use only, that are undertaken for administrative or operational are undertaken for administrative or operational purposes such as quality assurance or program purposes such as quality assurance or program evaluation, and;evaluation, and;

• research involving only the use of published or research involving only the use of published or publicly available information or materials, publicly available information or materials, performances or archival materials.performances or archival materials.

Health Services ResearchHealth Services ResearchResearch with the goal of improving the efficiency and Research with the goal of improving the efficiency and

effectiveness of health professionals and the health care effectiveness of health professionals and the health care system, through changes to practice and policy. Health system, through changes to practice and policy. Health services research is a multidisciplinary field of scientific services research is a multidisciplinary field of scientific investigation that studies how social factors, financing investigation that studies how social factors, financing systems, organizational structures and processes, health systems, organizational structures and processes, health technologies, and personal behaviours affect access to technologies, and personal behaviours affect access to health care, the quality and cost of health care, and, health care, the quality and cost of health care, and, ultimately, Canadians' health and well-being. ultimately, Canadians' health and well-being.

Canadian Institutes of Health Research: CIHR Canadian Institutes of Health Research: CIHR General General Grants and Awards PoliciesGrants and Awards Policieshttp://www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/22630.html#1-A1http://www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/22630.html#1-A1

Differentiation Between QI, Differentiation Between QI, Research Program EvaluationResearch Program Evaluation

Program EvaluationProgram Evaluation

Program evaluation is the systematic collection of information Program evaluation is the systematic collection of information about the activities, characteristics, and results of programs about the activities, characteristics, and results of programs to make judgments about the program, improve or further to make judgments about the program, improve or further develop program effectiveness, inform decisions about develop program effectiveness, inform decisions about future programming, and/or increase understanding future programming, and/or increase understanding

Program evaluation differs fundamentally from research in the Program evaluation differs fundamentally from research in the purpose of data collection and standards for judging quality. purpose of data collection and standards for judging quality. Basic scientific research is undertaken to discover new Basic scientific research is undertaken to discover new knowledge, test theories, establish truth, and generalize knowledge, test theories, establish truth, and generalize across time and space. Program evaluation is undertaken to across time and space. Program evaluation is undertaken to inform decisions, clarify opinions, identify improvements, inform decisions, clarify opinions, identify improvements, and provide information about programs and policies within and provide information about programs and policies within contextual boundaries of time, place, values, and politics contextual boundaries of time, place, values, and politics


Patton, M.Q. (2008). Utilization-focused evaluation. 4th Edition, page 39-40. SAGE Publications, Inc. USA

Program EvaluationProgram Evaluation

* Note that while evaluation can use research * Note that while evaluation can use research methods – evaluation using research methods is methods – evaluation using research methods is still evaluation, not research.still evaluation, not research.



Quality ImprovementQuality Improvement

QI studies are focused on improved processes, practices, QI studies are focused on improved processes, practices, cost-effectiveness, or productivity for a specific target cost-effectiveness, or productivity for a specific target audience (e.g. group of patients). One common description audience (e.g. group of patients). One common description of QI is “rapid cycle testing” through which a sequence of of QI is “rapid cycle testing” through which a sequence of “Plan-Do-Study-Act” (PDSA) is repeated.“Plan-Do-Study-Act” (PDSA) is repeated.

The refined scope of QI means that results cannot be The refined scope of QI means that results cannot be

generalized outside the sample to the population of interest.generalized outside the sample to the population of interest. Kring, D. L. (2008). Research and quality improvement: Different processes, different evidence.

MEDSURG Nursing—June 2008—Vol. 17/No. 3, 17(3), 162-169.

Case StudiesCase Studies

Which one is program evaluation and which Which one is program evaluation and which one is research?one is research?

What are the key defining differences between the two What are the key defining differences between the two case studies?case studies?

What are the similarities?What are the similarities?

What is the specific question being addressed?What is the specific question being addressed?

What is the overall goal?What is the overall goal?

How will results be disseminated?How will results be disseminated?

Case Study KeyCase Study Key

Case Study A: Case Study A:

Excerpt from an evaluation case study Excerpt from an evaluation case study from the American Evaluation Associationfrom the American Evaluation Associationhttp://www.eval.org/GPTraining/GP%20Training%20Final/gp.case1.pdfhttp://www.eval.org/GPTraining/GP%20Training%20Final/gp.case1.pdf

Case Study B: Case Study B:

Excerpts from Leah Olson’s successful Excerpts from Leah Olson’s successful 2007 FH Seed Grant competition2007 FH Seed Grant competition

1 fraser health grant application preparation workshop © fraser health authority, 2009 the fraser...

Documents

new fh researchers

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research goal

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larger scale study

research team