Preparing for the Discussion
Questions
Select a quantitative study
Which study did you choose from the three provided?
Identify potential concerns regarding the internal validity of that study.
Propose strategies to strengthen internal validity
How could the study design be improved to reduce threats to internal validity?
How would these improvements impact the other three types of validity: statistical conclusion validity, construct validity, and external validity?
Discuss the consequences of ignoring validity
What are the risks for an advanced practice nurse if they fail to assess a study’s validity before using it to inform evidence-based practice?
How to Approach Each Question
1. Selecting a study and identifying internal validity concerns
Pick one of the three studies provided:
Metheny et al. (2010)
Padula et al. (2009)
Yuan et al. (2009)
Read the Methods section carefully.
Ask yourself:
Were there confounding variables that weren’t controlled?
Was randomization or blinding used?
Were sample sizes adequate?
Was there a risk of selection bias, attrition, or measurement error?
Summarize at least one clear threat to internal validity in a paragraph.
2. Proposing strategies to strengthen internal validity
Identify solutions such as:
Using random assignment or matched groups
Controlling confounding variables
Increasing sample size
Using standardized measurement tools
Explain how these changes would affect other validity types:
Statistical conclusion validity: more accurate statistical results
Construct validity: stronger alignment between variables and measurements
External validity: may improve generalizability, depending on sample diversity
3. Discussing consequences of ignoring validity
Think about practical impacts:
Using flawed evidence could lead to poor clinical decisions
Patients may be exposed to ineffective or harmful interventions
Could affect trust in research and overall quality of care
Sample Solution
“Researchers who conduct scientific studies are often motivated by external factors, such as the desire to get published, advance their careers, receive funding, or seek certain results” (Unite for Sight, n.d., p.1). “As a consequence, a significant number of scientific studies are biased and unreliable” (Unite for Sight, n.d., p.1). There is a large influence of external factors that must be assessed to prevent bias and to ensure validity. Reliable studies…..Click below to access the full sample solution (PDF)