Stats #64: Statistical Evidence. Mountain or molehill? (August 2, 2004)

Seminar #64: Statistical Evidence: Mountain or Molehill?

This seminar gives you the tools to critically assess the evaluation of outcomes in a research study so you can decide whether the study has a clinically relevant impact. The talk requires no mathematical background and uses no formulas.

In this class you will learn how to:

explain how a narrow focus provides better quality evidence;
assess the impact of post hoc protocol changes;
evaluate the quality of outcome measures; and
recognize the ethical and practical limitations of a study when the sample size is too small;

This class qualifies for 1 IRB Education Credit (IRBEC).

Contents

Abstract
Where can I find this handout?
Statistical Evidence: Overview (not available on the web handout)
Statistical Evidence: Mountain or Molehill? (not available on the web handout)

Where can you find this handout?

This handout and the handouts that I use for all of my seminars and training classes are a compilation of individual web pages at www.childrensmercy.org/stats. I use the "Include Page" feature of Microsoft FrontPage to combine these into a single page. You can always find the most recent version of this compilation by going to the web address listed at the bottom of this page. Links for the handouts for other seminars and classes appear at www.childrensmercy.org/stats/training.asp.

Why don't I use PowerPoint?

I stopped using PowerPoint for my presentations in the mid 1990's. This was based on Edward Tufte's advice that presenting information in a paper handout is more effective than presenting the information on a projected screen. I found this to be excellent guidance. I enjoy talking when I don't have to wrestle with a laptop computer. I look at my audience more and interact with them better. I elaborate on this in greater detail at www.childrensmercy.org/stats/weblog2004/powerpoint.asp.

Statistical Evidence: Overview is not available on the web. A handout based on the overview of my upcoming book publication will included as a separate handout.

Statistical Evidence: Mountain or Molehill is not available on the web. A handout based on Chapter 3 of my upcoming book publication will included as a separate handout.