Analytic FrameworksInteractive Quiz

Prepared for:

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)

Training Modules for Systematic Reviews Methods Guide

www.ahrq.gov

What is an analytic framework?

A. A way to identify and measure bias

B. A visual way of linking and defining clinical concepts, evidence, and populations as they relate to outcomes

C. A way to check for logical flaws in the systematic review

D. Both B and C

E. None of the above

Definition of an Analytic Framework

Analytic frameworks are developed during the writing phase, at the end of the systematic review.

A.True

B.False

When Analytic Frameworks Are Developed

Why are analytic frameworks used in the course of a systematic review?

A.To provide clinical, biological, or health services underpinnings for the mechanism of action

B.To identify logical flaws as key questions are developed

C.To identify distinct bodies of evidence to be included in the review

D.To provide a starting point for discussions with key informants

E.All of the above

Key Uses of an Analytic Framework

One of the essential components of an analytic framework is the population of interest.

A.True

B.False

Population of Interest

When is the most productive time to use the analytic framework?

A.During the writing phase to allow the team to view the framework with fresh eyes

B.As the team needs it throughout the project

C.Only during quality assessment to assess applicability of studies

D.During the preparation phase to develop the key questions to provide a starting point for the key informants

When To Use the Analytic Framework

An analytic framework: Should be developed during the topic refinement

process Clarifies assumptions and complex questions Identifies logical flaws as key questions are

developed Should be used throughout the comparative

effectiveness review to revisit criteria, control scope, reconsider appropriate questions, guide interviews, and help structure results and the report

Summary

This quiz was prepared by Melissa L. McPheeters, Ph.D., M.P.H., a member of the Vanderbilt University Evidence-based Practice Center.

The module is based on an update of chapter 2 in version 1.0 of the Methods Guide for Comparative Effectiveness Reviews (available at: http://www.effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/ehc/products/60/294/2009_0805_principles1.pdf).

Author