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Enhancing Methodological Rigor in Stratified Cluster Randomized Trials

Enhancing Methodological Rigor in Stratified Cluster Randomized Trials

Introduction

As practitioners dedicated to improving outcomes for children through evidence-based approaches, it is crucial to understand the intricacies of research methodologies. The study "Analysis and reporting of stratified cluster randomized trials—a systematic survey" provides valuable insights into the current practices and gaps in the analysis and reporting of stratified cluster randomized trials (CRTs). This blog post aims to translate these findings into actionable steps for practitioners, particularly those involved in speech language pathology and online therapy services like those offered by TinyEYE.

Understanding Stratified Cluster Randomized Trials

Cluster randomized trials (CRTs) involve the random allocation of groups, or clusters, rather than individual participants. Stratified CRTs further divide these clusters into strata based on specific characteristics, ensuring balance among intervention groups. This design is particularly beneficial in settings like schools, where interventions are applied to groups rather than individuals.

Key Findings from the Systematic Survey

The systematic survey analyzed 185 stratified CRTs and identified significant deficiencies in their methodological rigor:

Implications for Practitioners

For practitioners, particularly those involved in designing or evaluating interventions, these findings highlight the importance of rigorous methodological practices. Here are some steps to enhance the quality of your research or practice evaluations:

Encouraging Further Research

The survey underscores the need for continued research and improvement in the methodological aspects of stratified CRTs. Practitioners are encouraged to delve deeper into the nuances of trial design and reporting. By doing so, you contribute to a body of knowledge that supports evidence-based practice and ultimately enhances outcomes for children.

Conclusion

Improving the methodological rigor of stratified CRTs is essential for generating reliable and actionable data. By implementing the recommendations from this systematic survey, practitioners can enhance the quality of their research and interventions. This, in turn, supports the mission of organizations like TinyEYE to deliver effective online therapy services to schools.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Analysis and reporting of stratified cluster randomized trials—a systematic survey.


Citation: Borhan, S., Papaioannou, A., Ma, J., Adachi, J., & Thabane, L. (2020). Analysis and reporting of stratified cluster randomized trials—a systematic survey. Trials, 21, 930. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-020-04850-w
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

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