University of Macau Library

Author: Morrison, Keith
Title: Randomized controlled trials in educational research: Learning from the “Medical Model”
Journal Name: 澳門科技大學學報
Pub. Info: Jun. 2016, Vol.10, No.1, pp. 64-75
Link: http://lib.must.edu.mo/sites/default/files/assets/images/Duu/must_journal_201601.pdf
Keyword: Randomized controlled trials；Experiments；Medical model；Clinical trials
Abstract: Abstract : The increased use of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in educational research has close affinity to the “medical model” of RCTs. However, currently there are both similarities and differences between the two. This paper argues that, taking the lead from RCTs in medicine, there should be much greater rigour and sensitivity in RCTs in educational research. The analogy is drawn between key considerations in RCTs in medical reaearch and those in education. The argument is advanced that, though medical treatments operate more on a one-to-one basis than education, nevertheless, in matters of research, the similarities between the two are sufficient for education to abide by the rigours of RCTs in medicine. Paragraph Headings: 1. Introduction 2. RCTs in medical and educational research 3. The limitations of averages 4. What researchers want and need to know 5. The need for “real world” evidence and regulation 6. Conclusion