Strategies for Teaching and Promoting Statistical Literacy in Health Sciences

• Activity Number: 372 - Section on Teaching of Statistics in the Health Sciences P.M. Roundtable Discussion (Added Fee)
• Type: Roundtables
• Date/Time: Tuesday, July 30, 2019 : 12:30 PM to 1:50 PM
• Sponsor: Section on Teaching of Statistics in the Health Sciences
• Author(s): Terrie Vasilopoulos* and Penny Reynolds
• Companies: University of Florida, College of Medicine and University of Florida College of Medicine
• Keywords: statistical literacy; medical education; critical appraisal; evidence based medicine; curriculum

Abstract

It is essential that health scientists and clinicians understand study design and the appropriate use and interpretation of biostatistics in order to evaluate evidence published and presented in the biomedical literature. However, incorporating research methods and biostatistical education into health science and clinical curricula presents challenges, including varying schedules, lack of protected time, and different learner levels and skillsets. While journal clubs are the most common method used to promote statistical literacy, other strategies, such as flipped classrooms and web-based courses, may be more successful. At this roundtable, we will discuss these different approaches to teaching statistical literacy and how we may improve upon these educational strategies to increase their effectiveness.