How can you decide which statistical test to use in research data analysis?

This self-paced course is designed to help researchers link a research question to the appropriate statistical test. In the first module, you will learn how to identify the population, intervention, control, and outcome from a research question. Module one also provides the basics of hypothesis testing and interpreting the p-value. Module two introduces different types of variables, which can then be used to determine the right statistical test. We discuss the two-sample t-test, paired t-test, chi-square test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and their non-parametric counterparts. Finally, you will have an opportunity to test your knowledge using examples from the clinical literature.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, you will be able to:

• Write research objectives using a standardized format.
• Explain the basics of hypothesis testing, including interpretation of the P value.
• Identify the types of variables and how they are summarized.
• Identify statistical tests commonly used for different types of outcome variables.
• Select appropriate statistical tests to use for published clinical examples.