STUDY DESIGNS Case Assignment Health science researchers have long believed the randomized controlled trial (RCT) to be the “gold standard” of study designs. There are many reasons for their contention that an RCT should be preferred to any of the observational study designs. However, there are also instances in which employment of this design would be inappropriate.

In a four-page paper, discuss the merits of the RCT as a study design with regard to:

Internal validity Confounding Feasibility/appropriateness External validity Assignment Expectations You are expected to consult the scholarly literature in preparing your paper; you are also expected to incorporate relevant background readings. Your paper should be written in your own words. This will enable me to assess your level of understanding. In order to earn full credit,

you must clearly show that you have read ALL required background materials. Be sure to cite your references in the text of all papers and on the reference list at the end. For examples, look at the way the references are listed in the modules and on the background reading list. Proofread your paper to be sure grammar and punctuation are correct and that each part of the assignment has been address clearly and completely. Length: 4 pages typed, double-spaced.

References: (PLEASE INCLUDE AT LEAST 2 ADDITIONAL INDEPENDENT REFERENCES).

Required Reading Available via the Internet:

Jepsen, P., Johnsen, S.P., Gillman, M.W., & Sorensen, H.T. (2004). Interpretation of observational studies. Heart, 90,956-960. Retrieved from http://heart.bmj.com/content/90/8/956.full.pdf Retrieved February 23, 2012.