Truth in Numbers: Statistics Crash Course for the Otolaryngologist Clinician

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: One need not be an expert in statistical software, nor have a public health degree, to understand most of what is needed for critical interpretation of clinical data. Moreover, given the emergence of evidenced based medicine, it is critical for clinicians to have at least a rudimentary understanding of biostatistics as they pertain to clinical research. Using an interactive case-based approach, this course will cover essential and practical information for critically appraising or conducting research. The material covered will include a discussion of normal distributions, non-parametric data, continuous vs. categorical variables, effect size, confidence intervals, p-values, time-to-event analyses, correlations, multivariate regression models, and common statistical errors and misconceptions. The course aims to provide essential knowledge and simple tools for this purpose.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Comprehend which statistical tests are needed in order to test specific hypotheses; while grasping the true meaning of significance

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Understand and learn how to determine effect size, 95% Confidence Intervals, z-scores, and multivariate regression models

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Learn about readily available, non-intimidating, user friendly statistical software programs

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: Need for a practical review of statistical and data interpretation knowledge to improve research quality and inform medical literature interpretation and peer review process. Course was featured in ENT Bulletin 2022.

Comprehensive Otolaryngology Track Statement : n/a