Research Methods in Assessment and Intervention

Suitable for: SLTs, Specialist Teachers, AHPs
Module Leader: Professor David Howard
Dates: 30th & 31st January, 1st & 2nd February 2012

Summary

This module covers to an advanced level, aspects of research methodology and data analysis related to assessment and intervention in communication disorders. It provides students with the knowledge and skills to design a research project based on their clinical practice using appropriate methods and data analysis tools.

Aims

To develop to an advanced level core skills in quantitative research methodology related to assessment and intervention in communication disorders. To enable students to design experiments; formulate and test hypotheses; use parametric and non-parametric statistical measures to evaluate the implications of data and the significance of evidence.

Outline of Syllabus

  1. Research methodology related to assessment and intervention to include:
    • Quantitative methods (e.g. experimental case series, single case efficacy, cohort studies, parallel group design)
    • Five phase model for clinical outcome research
    • Design of diagnostic accuracy studies
  2. Statistical analysis related to assessment and intervention research to include:
    • Parametric and non-parametric analysis of data
    • Using statistical software
    • Calculating effect sizes, odds ratios, likelihood ratios, risk ratios, diagnostic accuracy measures (e.g. sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, diagnostic odds ratios)
    • Confidence intervals
    • Methods for reducing bias
    • Sample Size and Power Calculations

Learning Outcomes

  1. Working knowledge of data analysis and statistical procedures and their applications to quantitative and qualitative data
  2. Comprehensive knowledge of ways of measuring communication behaviours.
  3. Understanding of phases of intervention outcome research
  4. Students will be able to design a research project related to their clinical practice.
  5. Students will be able to select appropriate methods and statistical analysis techniques for their research project.
  6. Students will be able to interpret results from such analysis in a relevant and meaningful way

Teaching Rationale

Lectures and seminars will provide the opportunity to explore research design and analysis methods
Practical sessions will provide the opportunity to practise skills around research design, selection of analysis methods and interpretation of results.