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Increasing value of health research: development of a new methodological decision support system to assist researchers in study design, conduct, and analysis

Research Project
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01.01.2020
 - 30.06.2021

Methods applied in health research are often uninformed and inappropriate. One important reason is that methodological guidance has limitations regarding access, presentation, and veracity. AIM: We propose to develop a new online methodological decision support system that provides health researchers with access to up-to-date, trustworthy, and user-friendly methodological recommendations. If feasible, the new system could become the key reference for those seeking methodological guidance. METHODS: We have formulated an overall development plan in which we identified key features and processes. To inform the feasibility of the overall initiative, we will start with pilot studies addressing key features of the proposed system: We will explore existing approaches for systematically reviewing and monitoring the methodological literature for a specific methodological question. We will test candidate approaches by applying them to a specific topic (e.g. adaptive designs for randomized trials). Based on the test results, we will draft a standard process for reviewing a methodological topic. In addition, we will explore ways to develop methodological recommendations together with experts. Specifically, we are interested in the extent to which we can adapt guideline processes from the medical context (e.g. the GRADE approach). We will draft processes for transparently selecting, evaluating, and integrating methodological evidence (i.e. results of research on research and simulation studies) in methodological practice recommendations.

Funding

Increasing value of health research: development of a new methodological decision support system to assist researchers in study design, conduct, and analysis

SNF Projekt (GrantsTool), 12.2019-11.2020 (12)
PI : Schandelmaier, Stefan.

Members (1)

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Stefan Schandelmaier

Principal Investigator