How to Evaluate a Study
-
Classify the study as
a sample survey,
an observational study,
an experiment, something else, or some
combination.
-
Consider the
7 Critical Components. In particular:
-
Check for common
pitfalls associated with
that type of study.
-
Determine if there is incomplete information.
-
See what possible explanations
are provided by the authors.
Are the results and/or explanations compatible with what you
already know or surprising/contradictory?
- Consider alternative explantations.
- Determine if the resulsts are meaningful enough
to warrant a change (in policty, behavior, attitudes, etc.).
Source:
Seeing Through Statistics, 2nd ed. by Jessica Utts, page 93.
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