This essay focuses on study designs. Often, we see a news headline about a scientific discovery related to health and wellness, One of the first ways to make this judgment call is to critically evaluate the type of design and methodology used to arrive at the findings. When designing a study, epidemiologists have to strike a balance between scientific rigor and feasibility.
Often, we see a news headline about a scientific discovery related to health and wellness,
Firstly, we question how true the claim is.
In other words, is the science behind the claim“good enough” for us to believe it?
One of the first ways to make this judgment call is to critically evaluate the type of and study methodology used to arrive at the findings.
When designing a study, epidemiologists have to strike a balance between scientific rigor and feasibility.
Review the research study from the assigned readings.
Review the video to learn how other characteristics of a study (e.g. sample size) can influence the interpretation of the results.
Correlation and Causality (00:10:45) (opens in new window) (Optional)
Create a free account to review LAERD.com (opens in new window) for practical details about when to use different designs and assumptions that must be met about the data for each type
Select and discuss some of the practical issues that can influence the selected study
How/Where might preference toward a specific design influence the interpretation of the results?
Support your response with an authoritative source.