Interpreting Statistical Reports of Tests and Measurements

Course overview

With the advent of evidence-based practice, an increased responsibility has been placed on clinicians to understand and apply evidence to patient care. Many clinicians have recognized this responsibility only to find themselves at an impasse when arriving at the results and data analysis section of a journal article. The ability to interpret research requires a process of active learning and a reasonable starting point, as numerous statistical tests, analyses and measurement principles exist. With the evolving paradigm shift toward evidence-based practice, many clinicians have begun to recognize that reproducibility (reliability) and validity are necessary considerations when choosing a test or measurement. With an understanding of reliability and validity, clinicians can recognize the merits and limitations of a particular test and thus have confidence in their interpretation of the clinical examination.