May 1, 2024
3 minute read
Funnel plots are a graphical representation of the relationship between two variables, typically a predictor variable and an outcome variable. They are used to assess the presence of publication bias, which occurs when the results of a study are more likely to be published if they are statistically significant.
What are funnel plots?
Funnel plots are created by plotting the effect size of a study against its sample size. The effect size is a measure of the strength of the relationship between the predictor and outcome variables. It can be calculated using a variety of statistical methods, such as the odds ratio, risk ratio, or correlation coefficient.
The sample size is the number of participants in the study. It is important to consider the sample size when interpreting funnel plots, as studies with larger sample sizes are more likely to have statistically significant results.
How to interpret funnel plots?
Funnel plots can be used to assess the presence of publication bias in a body of research. If there is no publication bias, the funnel plot will be symmetrical, with the effect sizes of studies evenly distributed around the midline.
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Find a path to becoming a Funnel Plots. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/2r2afc/funnel
Reading list
We've selected six 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
Funnel Plots.
An excellent introduction to funnel plots for meta-analyses; uses R extensively; little discussion of meta-regression.
A well-rounded text introducing the fundamental concepts of meta-analyses, including thorough coverage of funnel plots and publication bias.
Covers the mathematical and statistical principles of meta-analysis and funnel plots; emphasizes the importance of assessing the reliability and credibility of research findings.
An overview of meta-analysis and its applications in various social science disciplines; includes a chapter on funnel plots and publication bias.
An overview of meta-analysis applications in medical research; includes a chapter on assessing publication bias using funnel plots.
Presents applications of meta-analysis in economics and business contexts; includes a chapter on using funnel plots for bias assessment.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/2r2afc/funnel
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