Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, students will be better able to avoid the main pitfalls faced by scientists when interpreting the results of data analysis.

Students will also be able to organize data in a structured way in a spreadsheet and carry out data analysis using the appropriate tools.

Goals

Knowledge in the biomedical field is constantly evolving through scientific research in which statistical data analysis is central. The objective of this course is to provide the student with the statistical concepts necessary to critically read the biomedical literature.

Table of contents

- Regression to the mean
- Censored data
- Normal distribution
- Absolute and relative differences and logarithmic transformation
- Descriptive statistics and error bars
- Correlation vs. causation
- Margin of error
- Quantifying the exceptional nature of a result (P-value)
- Biological vs. statistical significance
- Problem of repeating a random test
- Logic of corroboration vs. logic of validation

Exercices

Practical work consists of 8 sessions of 2 hours each.

Presence at these sessions is compulsory.

The content of these sessions is as follows:

1. Introduction to the spreadsheet
2. Introduction to the spreadsheet
3. Binary data analysis
4. Analysis of continuous data
5. Analysis of censored data
6. Analysis of correlation between continuous data
7. Evaluation
8. Evaluation

Assessment method

Assessment for this course is based on an in-session written examination. The exam may consist of multiple-answer and/or open-ended questions. The student may be asked to define terms seen in the course, perform calculations that would have been explained in the course (no form is provided, a calculator may be necessary), explain the relevance of concepts seen in the course and/or correctly interpret the results of a data analysis.

Assessment of practical work takes place out of session and does not give rise to a second session.

The final grade (/20) is the sum of the practical grade (/5) and the written exam (/15).

Partial grades do not carry over from one academic year to the next.

Language of instruction

Français