User:Kellie Toohey/Learning Outcomes/2. Develop research questions and purpose statements

A research question was developed after extensive analysis of the literature. An understanding of the population and the gaps in the research is key when developing a research question. Past knowledge and experience was also drawn upon to depict what is needed in the research on exercise and the population group (cancer survivors). My current knowledge and level of understanding regarding physiological mechanisms and its relationship with exercise has lead me to want to delve further into the potential effects it could have on a particular chronic population. These effects have been shown, but the mechanisms behind these effects still remain unknown. However, my limited research background will need to be further developed to ensure that I am skilled in interpreting and relaying the statistical data and key messages that will be studied in the proposed research questions.

PHASE 1:

'''Study 1: To ascertain physical activity levels in cancer survivors, specifically looking at time, type and intensity. (Database at The Canberra Hospital) with a physical activity recall added.'''

PHASE 2:

'''Study 2: Moderate versus High Intensity Exercise: Effects on cardiometabolic disease risk factors in cancer patients undergoing doxorubicin or epirubucin treatment. A pilot sudy.'''

PHASE 3:

Study 3: Moderate versus High Intensity Exercise: Effects on quality of life and physical function in cancer survivors.

Study 4: Moderate versus High Intensity Exercise: Effects on cardiometabolic disease risk factors in cancer survivors.

Strengths:
 * Knowledge of topic area
 * Experience in training mechanisms
 * Understanding of research population

Study Weaknesses:
 * Uncontrolled treatment variables
 * Varied measures with topic population

Personal Weaknesses
 * Develop research communication skills
 * Limited writing experience

Addressing weaknesses

After advice from an oncologist and a cardiologist, it was decided that we would streamline the topic are to breast cancer survivors undergoing doxorubicin or epirubucin treatment, both drugs are anthracycline antibiotics. This will assist in building strength by narrowing the treatment variables, moderate intensity exercise group, reducing cadiometabolic disease risk factors, enabling us to represent the data in a more homogeneous and controlled manner. On-line and face to face workshops and short courses run by the University and outside sources, will be form part of the development of skills required for the project. Supervision and support of supervisors will also be sort to ensure the project is heading in the right direction and meeting outcomes.