Appraising Research Papers for Beginners – Quantitative Research

Not all published research is reliable! If you want to be confident reading and utilising published research you need to understand its content and be able to objectively assess its quality. Run as two separate training sessions (either quantitative or qualitative), the appraising research papers for beginners sessions will equip learners with the theory and knowledge of how to appraise quantitative (randomised controlled trial) or a qualitative research paper. Learners are required to read a prescribed research paper before attending the session. A copy of the relevant Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist will be supplied via email. No prior knowledge of critical appraisal or statistical concepts is required. The session covers the following:  Overview of the critical appraisal process  Key features of qualitative/quantitative research  Interpreting statistics (for quantitative research)  Using the CASP checklists to appraise research papers