Research Methodology

Question 1

What is an observational study?

Answer 1

Study does not intervene

Question 2

What is an experimental study?

Answer 2

Study which investigator deliberately intervenes

Question 3

What is the difference between cross sectional and longitudinal studies?

Answer 3

CS provide snapshot at moment in time – Longitudinal studies over length of time

Question 4

Name 3 advantages of cross-sectional studies

Answer 4

1. Simple
2. Collect data at same time
3. Not demanding of subjects

Question 5

Name 3 disadvantages of cross-sectional studies

Answer 5

1. Lack time dimension
2. Over interpretation
3. Not efficient for rare conditions

Question 6

Name 3 types of longitudinal studies

Answer 6

1. Cohort
2. Case control
3. Randomised control trials

Question 7

Describe a case control study

Answer 7

Investigate cause and look backwards to see past events

Question 8

Describe a cohort study

Answer 8

Groups identified and watched to see progress

Question 9

Name 3 advantages of case control studies

Answer 9

1. Efficient
2. Study time
3. Lower costs

Question 10

Name 3 disadvantages of case control studies

Answer 10

1. Retrospective
2. Incomplete information
3. Bias

Question 11

Name 3 advantages of cohort studies

Answer 11

1. All risks measured
2. Avoids bias
3. Multiple end points assessed

Question 12

Name 3 disadvantages of cohort studies

Answer 12

1. Time consuming
2. Large subjects group
3. Confounding factors

Question 13

What is bias?

Answer 13

Inaccuracy that is different in size or direction in one group in study

Question 14

Name 5 sources of bias

Answer 14

1. Selection
2. Allocation
3. Measurement
4. Recall
5. Observer

Question 15

What is confounding?

Answer 15

Distortion of exposure-outcome association

Question 16

Describe randomised control trials

Answer 16

Gold standard, control-subject intervention the same, randomisation controls confounding and double blinding controls bias