CH.12 CDIS 455

Chapter 12

  • Charis Powell, M.S., CCC-SLP

  • Fall 2021

Evaluating Research

  • Not all evidence is created equal

    • Importance of discerning between credible and non-credible information.

  • Multiple media makes it difficult to decipher good from bad information

    • The proliferation of information sources complicates the evaluation process.

  • Information literacy:

    • Definition: A set of abilities requiring individuals to recognize when information is needed and to have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information.

Evaluating Research Sections

  • Article Sections:

    • Abstract:

    • Provides a summary of the entire study or article.

    • Introduction:

    • States the purpose of the research.

    • Literature Review:

    • Reviews support from previously completed publications relevant to the current study.

    • Method:

    • Details on materials used in the study and how the study was conducted.

    • Results:

    • Presents the data collected and includes statistical analysis.

    • Discussion:

    • Interprets the findings and makes inferences based on the results.

    • Conclusion:

    • Summarizes the closing information and implications of the study.

Types of Research

  • Quantitative vs Qualitative

    • Quantitative:

    • Characterized as objective; focuses on quantifiable data and statistical analysis.

    • Qualitative:

    • Characterized as subjective; involves exploring concepts, experiences, and meanings.

Comments

  • STUDY PURPOSE:

    • Was the purpose and/or research question stated clearly?

    • Options: yes / no

    • Outline the purpose of the study and/or research question.

  • Evaluation Checklists:

    • Cars (Qualitative)

    • McMasters (Quantitative)

  • LITERATURE:

    • Was relevant background literature reviewed?

    • Options: yes / no

  • STUDY DESIGN:

    • What was the design?

    • Options:

      • phenomenology

      • ethnography

      • grounded theory

      • participatory action research

      • other

    • Describe the justification of the need for this study. Was it clear and compelling?

    • How does the study apply to your practice and/or to your research question? Is it worth continuing this review?¹

    • Was the design appropriate for the study question? (i.e., rationale) Explain.

References

  • Meline, T. (2010). A research primer for communication sciences and disorders. Pearson.