A Systems Orientation to Research Capacity Development: A South African Perspective

Abstract

Research capacity development is essential for quality and cost-effective healthcare, and well-prepared healthcare professionals. This case study used an exploratory design to gain insight into the contributions that a novice researcher programme makes towards research capacity development. Data were collected from reports to the board of a professional organisation acting as custodian of the project and three reflection workshops. The case was deductively analysed using the literature on research capacity development as the point of departure. The Cooke integrated framework for research capacity building in healthcare was used to evaluate the development that took place. The findings of the analysis are described and discussed according to the eight dimensions of the Cooke integrated framework indicating that this novice programme fulfilled all the dimensions of the framework.