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F. Perry Wilson
How can you tell if the bold headlines seen on social media are truly touting the next big thing or if the article isn't worth the paper it's printed on?
Read more
How can you tell if the bold headlines seen on social media are truly touting the next big thing or if the article isn't worth the paper it's printed on?
Read more
How can you tell if the bold headlines seen on social media are truly touting the next big thing or if the article isn't worth the paper it's printed on?
Understanding Medical Studies, will provide you with the tools and skills you need to critically interpret medical studies, and determine for yourself the difference between good and bad science.
The course covers study-design, research methods, and statistical interpretation. It also delves into the dark side of medical research by covering fraud, biases, and common misinterpretations of data. Each lesson will highlight case-studies from real-world journal articles.
By the end of this course, you'll have the tools you need to determine the trustworthiness of the scientific information you're reading and, of course, whether or not your Facebook friend is wrong.
This course was made possible in part by the George M. O'Brien Kidney Center at Yale.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/arqcme/understanding
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What's inside
Syllabus
Welcome!
Find out what you'll be learning and what powers you'll have by the end of the course!
The Basics
Gain some foundational knowledge!
Read more
Syllabus
Welcome!
Find out what you'll be learning and what powers you'll have by the end of the course!
The Basics
Gain some foundational knowledge!
Read more
Medical Statistics Made Ridiculously Simple
It's (sort of) that easy!
Types of Medical Studies
A test for every situation!
How Wrong Conclusions Are Reached
Bad plan? Bad data? Bad actors?
Bias
Subtle and hard to correct, Bias is the silent killer of good research.
Fixing the Problems with Medical Studies
All hope is not lost!
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Explores medical research methods, statistics, and common misinterpretations of data, which are all topics of debate in modern healthcare and society
Teaches skills to critically interpret medical studies, which are invaluable for making informed decisions about one's own health and well-being
Examines fraud, biases, and common misinterpretations of data, which are critical topics for understanding the limitations and potential pitfalls of medical research
Taught by F. Perry Wilson, a renowned physician and science communicator, which lends credibility and expertise to the course
May require background knowledge in medical terminology and concepts, which could be a barrier for learners without prior experience in the field
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Save Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Medical research demystified
learners say this course demystifies medical research, even for those with no medical background. Students highly recommend this course for its engaging presentation by Dr. Perry Wilson, who uses real-world examples to explain complex concepts in an understandable way. This course is especially relevant in today's world, where it's more important than ever to be able to critically evaluate medical studies. Key features of this course include:
* **Engaging Lectures:** Dr. Wilson's lectures are full of humor and interesting examples that make learning about medical research fun and easy to understand.
* **Real-World Examples:** Dr. Wilson uses real-world examples to illustrate the concepts he's teaching, which helps learners to see how these concepts are applied in the real world.
* **Critical Thinking Skills:** This course teaches learners how to critically evaluate medical studies, which is an important skill for anyone who wants to be able to make informed decisions about their health.
Overall, learners say this course is a great way to learn about medical research, even for those with no medical background.
This course makes medical research understandable, even for those without a medical background.
"This course is accessible to laypeople who want to get a better understanding of the health headlines that promise more than they can deliver."
"A fantastic overview of medical literature and research for the layperson, or even for the practicing clinician who's a bit rusty on his stats."
This course teaches learners how to critically evaluate medical studies, which is an important skill for anyone who wants to be able to make informed decisions about their health.
"I am unable to disenroll from this course and get it off my dashboard. I follow the directions for disenrolling but the function doesn't do anything."
Dr. Wilson uses real-world examples to illustrate the concepts he's teaching, which helps learners to see how these concepts are applied in the real world.
"The best course I have encountered. Thanks for your effort. Maybe you can add some additional quiz lie an end term exam to consolidate what we learn."
Dr. Perry Wilson's engaging presentation style makes learning about medical research fun and easy to understand.
"The course is intriguing and interactive. The course contents are well designed and interesting to learn! Hope to see a sequel to this course!!!!!!!"
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong with these
activities:
Review statistical methods
Show steps
Reviewing statistical methods will help refresh your knowledge and strengthen your understanding of the concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on
Statistical Methods
Show steps
-
Review basic concepts such as mean, median, and standard deviation.
-
Practice applying statistical methods to real-world data sets.
Watch video tutorials on medical research
Show steps
Watching video tutorials will provide you with additional insights into the concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on
Medical Research
Show steps
-
Search for reputable sources.
-
Take notes and highlight key points.
Solve practice problems on medical studies
Show steps
Completing by the practice drills will improve your ability to critically analyze medical studies.
Show steps
-
Identify the type of medical study.
-
Evaluate the study design.
-
Interpret the results.
-
Draw conclusions.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Join a study group for the course
Show steps
Working with peers will enhance your understanding and retention of the material.
Show steps
-
Find a group of students with similar interests.
-
Meet regularly to discuss the course material.
Attend a medical research workshop
Show steps
Attending a medical research workshop will provide you with opportunities to learn from experts.
Show steps
-
Research medical research workshops.
-
Register for a workshop.
Create a collection of resources on medical studies
Show steps
Compiling resources will help you to organize and synthesize your learning.
Show steps
-
Gather resources from reputable sources.
-
Organize the resources by topic.
Write a blog post about a medical study
Show steps
Summarizing a medical study will help you to solidify your understanding of the topic.
Show steps
-
Choose a medical study to write about.
-
Write a summary of the study.
-
Include your own analysis and critique of the study.
Participate in a medical research competition
Show steps
Participating in a medical research competition will provide you with hands-on experience.
Browse courses on
Medical Research
Show steps
-
Research medical research competitions.
-
Form a team or work independently.
-
Submit your research proposal.
Review statistical methods
Show steps
Reviewing statistical methods will help refresh your knowledge and strengthen your understanding of the concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on
Statistical Methods
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review basic concepts such as mean, median, and standard deviation.
- Practice applying statistical methods to real-world data sets.
Watch video tutorials on medical research
Show steps
Watching video tutorials will provide you with additional insights into the concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on
Medical Research
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for reputable sources.
- Take notes and highlight key points.
Solve practice problems on medical studies
Show steps
Completing by the practice drills will improve your ability to critically analyze medical studies.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the type of medical study.
- Evaluate the study design.
- Interpret the results.
- Draw conclusions.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Join a study group for the course
Show steps
Working with peers will enhance your understanding and retention of the material.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a group of students with similar interests.
- Meet regularly to discuss the course material.
Attend a medical research workshop
Show steps
Attending a medical research workshop will provide you with opportunities to learn from experts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research medical research workshops.
- Register for a workshop.
Create a collection of resources on medical studies
Show steps
Compiling resources will help you to organize and synthesize your learning.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather resources from reputable sources.
- Organize the resources by topic.
Write a blog post about a medical study
Show steps
Summarizing a medical study will help you to solidify your understanding of the topic.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a medical study to write about.
- Write a summary of the study.
- Include your own analysis and critique of the study.
Participate in a medical research competition
Show steps
Participating in a medical research competition will provide you with hands-on experience.
Browse courses on
Medical Research
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research medical research competitions.
- Form a team or work independently.
- Submit your research proposal.
Career center
Learners who complete Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
Data Analysts use various analytical tools and statistical techniques to interpret data and obtain meaningful insights. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' provides a solid foundation in statistics and study design, which are essential skills for Data Analysts. By understanding how medical studies are conducted and interpreted, Data Analysts can better evaluate the validity and reliability of data, draw accurate conclusions, and communicate their findings effectively. Additionally, the course's emphasis on identifying bias and misinterpretations of data is crucial for Data Analysts to ensure the accuracy and objectivity of their own analyses.
Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare Consultants provide advice and guidance to healthcare organizations on a wide range of issues, including strategy, operations, and quality improvement. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' equips individuals with the skills to critically evaluate medical studies and determine the validity and reliability of research findings. This knowledge is essential for Healthcare Consultants to effectively assess the quality of healthcare services, develop evidence-based recommendations, and drive improvements in patient care.
Medical Science Liaison
Medical Science Liaison
Medical Science Liaisons serve as a bridge between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers, providing scientific and clinical information about new and existing medications. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' provides Medical Science Liaisons with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively evaluate and communicate medical research findings. By understanding the principles of study design, statistical interpretation, and potential biases, Medical Science Liaisons can ensure the accurate and ethical dissemination of scientific information to healthcare providers and patients.
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analysts research, analyze, and develop policies that impact public health. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' provides Health Policy Analysts with a solid foundation in medical research methods and statistics, enabling them to critically evaluate the evidence and make informed policy decisions. The course's emphasis on identifying bias and misinterpretations of data is particularly valuable for Health Policy Analysts, as it equips them with the skills to navigate complex and often conflicting information.
Clinical Research Coordinator
Clinical Research Coordinator
Clinical Research Coordinators manage all aspects of clinical trials, ensuring compliance with regulations and ethical guidelines. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' provides Clinical Research Coordinators with a deep understanding of study design, data collection, and statistical analysis, enabling them to effectively monitor and oversee research studies. The course's emphasis on identifying bias and misinterpretations of data is crucial for Clinical Research Coordinators to ensure the integrity and validity of clinical trials.
Medical Writer
Medical Writer
Medical Writers create clear and concise written materials that communicate complex medical information to various audiences. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' equips Medical Writers with a strong foundation in medical research methods and statistics, enabling them to accurately interpret and synthesize scientific findings. The course's emphasis on identifying bias and misinterpretations of data is particularly valuable for Medical Writers, as it allows them to write evidence-based and credible medical content.
Science Journalist
Science Journalist
Science Journalists write, edit, and publish articles, books, and other materials that explain scientific concepts to the public. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' provides Science Journalists with a solid understanding of medical research methods and statistics, enabling them to accurately interpret and communicate scientific findings to lay audiences. The course's emphasis on identifying bias and misinterpretations of data is particularly valuable for Science Journalists, as it allows them to present scientific information in a fair and balanced manner.
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives promote and sell pharmaceutical products to healthcare providers. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' provides Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives with a strong understanding of medical research methods and statistics, enabling them to effectively communicate the benefits and risks of pharmaceutical products to healthcare providers. The course's emphasis on identifying bias and misinterpretations of data is particularly valuable for Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives, as it allows them to accurately and ethically represent the scientific evidence supporting their products.
Biostatistician
Biostatistician
Biostatisticians design and analyze statistical methods for medical research. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' provides Biostatisticians with a deeper understanding of medical research methods and statistics, enabling them to develop and apply more sophisticated analytical techniques. The course's emphasis on identifying bias and misinterpretations of data is particularly valuable for Biostatisticians, as it allows them to ensure the validity and reliability of their statistical analyses.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists investigate the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in defined populations. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' provides Epidemiologists with a solid foundation in medical research methods and statistics, enabling them to design and conduct epidemiological studies that accurately measure and analyze health outcomes. The course's emphasis on identifying bias and misinterpretations of data is particularly valuable for Epidemiologists, as it allows them to draw valid conclusions from their research.
Registered Nurse
Registered Nurse
Registered Nurses provide direct patient care and are responsible for administering medications, monitoring patient conditions, and educating patients and their families about their health. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' may be useful for Registered Nurses who wish to develop a deeper understanding of medical research methods and statistics. This knowledge can be beneficial for nurses who are involved in research projects or who want to stay up-to-date on the latest medical advances.
Physician Assistant
Physician Assistant
Physician Assistants work closely with physicians to provide patient care. They perform physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, and prescribe medications. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' may be useful for Physician Assistants who wish to develop a deeper understanding of medical research methods and statistics. This knowledge can be beneficial for Physician Assistants who are involved in research projects or who want to stay up-to-date on the latest medical advances.
Pharmacist
Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense medications and provide advice on their use. They also work with physicians to monitor patient medication therapy. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' may be useful for Pharmacists who wish to develop a deeper understanding of medical research methods and statistics. This knowledge can be beneficial for Pharmacists who are involved in research projects or who want to stay up-to-date on the latest medical advances.
Laboratory Technician
Laboratory Technician
Laboratory Technicians perform tests on blood, urine, and other bodily fluids to help diagnose and treat diseases. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' may be useful for Laboratory Technicians who wish to develop a deeper understanding of medical research methods and statistics. This knowledge can be beneficial for Laboratory Technicians who are involved in research projects or who want to stay up-to-date on the latest medical advances.
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrators manage the day-to-day operations of hospitals and other healthcare organizations. They are responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the delivery of healthcare services. The course, 'Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong,' may be useful for Healthcare Administrators who wish to develop a deeper understanding of medical research methods and statistics. This knowledge can be beneficial for Healthcare Administrators who are involved in planning and evaluating healthcare programs or who want to stay up-to-date on the latest medical advances.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/arqcme/understanding
Reading list
We've selected eight books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong.
Save
Provides a concise and accessible guide to reading and interpreting medical research papers. It covers the basics of study design, statistical analysis, and how to evaluate the validity of research findings.
Provides a clear and easy-to-understand introduction to medical statistics. It covers the basics of probability, hypothesis testing, and statistical analysis.
Provides a comprehensive overview of clinical epidemiology, including the principles of study design, data collection, and analysis.
Provides a comprehensive overview of clinical epidemiology, including the principles of study design, data collection, and analysis.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of epidemiology, including the principles of study design, data collection, and analysis.
Comprehensive reference on medical statistics, covering a wide range of topics, including study design, data analysis, and statistical methods.
Classic textbook on statistical methods for medical research, providing a thorough coverage of study design, data analysis, and statistical methods.
Provides a comprehensive dictionary of epidemiology terms, including definitions, examples, and references.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/arqcme/understanding
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Effort
6 weeks at 3-4 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Yale University
Instructor
F. Perry Wilson
Language
English
Transcripts
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Português
Deutsch
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中文
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Good to know
Explores medical research methods, statistics, and common misinterpretations of data, which are all topics of debate in modern healthcare and society
Teaches skills to critically interpret medical studies, which are invaluable for making informed decisions about one's own health and well-being
Examines fraud, biases, and common misinterpretations of data, which are critical topics for understanding the limitations and potential pitfalls of medical research
Taught by F. Perry Wilson, a renowned physician and science communicator, which lends credibility and expertise to the course
May require background knowledge in medical terminology and concepts, which could be a barrier for learners without prior experience in the field
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