As of 2024, the field of dietetics requires Registered Dietitians to have a Master degree which means a bigger emphasis on research. 

Research methods is also part of the study guide for the RD Exam.

This is what you'll learn in this episode:

• A closer look at qualitative and quantitative research studies
• A breakdown of independent and dependent variables 
• A review of different types of research studies and designs as well as the pros and cons of each type of research study

Here's a glance at this episode:

[00:33] An overview of qualitative and quantitative research studies

[04:50] A review of the steps involved in a research study from identifying a problem, creating a hypothesis, to methods, discussion, and conclusion

[07:30] An important approval needed when doing a research study involving human subjects

[09:43] A review of control and experimental groups 

[11:40] What a randomized controlled trial is and why this is considered the gold standard when it comes to research. You'll also learn about the benefits of a double blind research design

[13:00] A discussion of independent and dependent variables 

[15:10] A breakdown of cohort studies including longitudinal, retrospective, and prospective cohort studies

[22:25] A closer look at cross-sectional research studies and the pros and cons of this type of research design

[23:35] A review of case controlled studies 

[25:55] Survey research and how companies use this type of research to get immediate customer feedback

[28:10] An overview of quasi experimental design and when this type of research is used

I also give a couple shout outs to new dietitians who passed the RD Exam and joined the RD community.