MPH2070

Advanced statistical methods for clinical research ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: A/Prof A Forbes

Offered:
MMS-ALFRED Second semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: Explores statistical analysis used in clinical research through research data analysis and critical appraisal of published articles. Includes analysis of survival time data with Cox proportional hazards regression models. Methods for clinical trials data, including design considerations, sequential analysis, analysis of repeated measures data. Methods for measuring agreement between raters or instruments including kappa statistics and intraclass correlation coefficients. Covers strategies for the development of prediction models based on linear or logistic regression and methods for process control. Combination of formal lectures, discussion sessions and data analysis using laptop computers.

Objectives: On completion of this unit students should be have: 1. learnt statistical analysis methods for the analysis of clinical research data. 2. gained the skills to apply statistical methods to example datasets using statistical software on a laptop computer. 3. gained an understanding of the implications of statistical considerations for the design of clinical research studies. 4. gained an understanding of and the ability to interpret statistical methods in published articles on clinical research studies.

Assessment: Written assignments + Oral presentation + Class exercises

Contact Hours: 2 contact hours per week

Prerequisites: MPH2000