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Critical Evaluation

12 三月, 2015 - 12:02
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We need to critically evaluate the statistical studies we read about and analyze before accepting the results of the study. Common problems to be aware of include

  • Problems with Samples: A sample should be representative of the population. A sample that is not representative of the population is biased. Biased samples that are not representative of the population give results that are inaccurate and not valid.
  • Self-Selected Samples: Responses only by people who choose to respond, such as call-in surveys are often unreliable.
  • Sample Size Issues: Samples that are too small may be unreliable. Larger samples are better if possible. In some situations, small samples are unavoidable and can still be used to draw conclusions, even though larger samples are better. Examples: Crash testing cars, medical testing for rare conditions.
  • Undue infuence: Collecting data or asking questions in a way that infuences the response.
  • Non-response or refusal of subject to participate: The collected responses may no longer be representative of the population. Often, people with strong positive or negative opinions may answer surveys, which can afect the results.
  • Causality: A relationship between two variables does not mean that one causes the other to occur. They may both be related (correlated) because of their relationship through a different variable.
  • Self-Funded or Self-Interest Studies: A study performed by a person or organization in order to support their claim. Is the study impartial? Read the study carefully to evaluate the work. Do not automatically assume that the study is good but do not automatically assume the study is bad either. Evaluate it on its merits and the work done.
  • Misleading Use of Data: Improperly displayed graphs, incomplete data, lack of context.
  • Confounding: When the effects of multiple factors on a response cannot be separated. Confounding makes it difficult or impossible to draw valid conclusions about the effect of each factor.