RCR: Ensure Study Proposal Rigor with Risk of Bias Tools

Presented by Helena VonVille, MLS, MPH, School of Public Health Liaison and Research and Instruction Librarian 

Risk of Bias (RoB) is defined as “a systematic error, or deviation from truth, in results” (Cochrane Handbook, Chapter 7) and can occur as a result of “flaws in design, conduct, analysis, and/or reporting” (Cochrane Handbook, Chapter V). RoB tools have been developed to assess for potential bias in studies selected for inclusion in a systematic review. They can also be utilized to self assess your grant proposal to ensure you have not introduced excessive bias into your study. (subject matter: data acquisition and analysis)  By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

1. Define risk of bias and explain how RoB is typically used;
2. Compare and contrast RoB and critical appraisal;
3. List and describe RoB domains;
4. Find and utilize RoB assessment tools.