HAR6170: Medical Statistics and Evidence Synthesis
This module is led by Jessica Forsyth. It runs in the Autumn semester and is worth 15 credits.
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Module description
This module introduces students to key concepts and methods used in medical statistics.
The module is organised in two parts:
- Design, analysis and reporting of randomised control trials.
- Synthesis of evidence from multiple clinical trials using meta-analysis methods and quantifying uncertainty using experts’ beliefs.
Classical (ie frequentist) and Bayesian meta-analysis methods will be presented with an emphasis on how evidence can be used to represent uncertainty about input parameters in decision analytical models.
Objectives
On satisfactory completion of the course, a student will be able to:
- Describe the process of setting and testing statistical hypotheses in randomised controlled trials
- Describe and apply appropriate Classical statistical methods for analysing different types of data collected in randomised controlled trials
- Conduct Classical analyses of data collected in randomised controlled trials using statistical software
- Describe the Bayesian approach to statistics and contrast it with the Classical approach
- Describe what is meant by fixed effect and random effects models for meta-analysing evidence from multiple randomised controlled trials
- Describe what is meant by a standard pairwise meta-analysis and a network meta-analysis of evidence from multiple randomised controlled trials, and be able to conduct a Bayesian analysis using appropriate statistical software
- Describe the process of the elicitation of experts’ beliefs
Teaching
This module can also be taken as part of the following courses:
This module is available as a DDP module
Informal lectures, some of which will include exercises for students to complete, will provide the majority of contact hours with lecturers (10 x 2 hours). For nine weeks, tutorials will be given to undertake computer-based problem-solving (10 x 2 hours).
Study expectations
Students will be expected to undertake approximately 110 hours of independent study, including preparation for tutorials, preparation for assignments and further recommended reading of articles published in peer-reviewed journals and textbooks.
These learning methods will reinforce learning outcomes and provide practical experience in applying some concepts.
Fees and funding
You can find out more about fees and funding for CPD modules in the School of Medicine and Population Health at the link below. We accept sponsored as well as self-funding students.
How to apply
Find out what you need to do to apply for a CPD module in the School of Medicine and Population Health.
Contact
For more information on this module, speak to the lead academic:
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it is up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research, funding changes, professional accreditation requirements, student or employer feedback, outcomes of reviews, and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
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