JOURNAL Article
Goal: To develop skills in critically assessing the primary literature and presenting the findings of clinical research.

Objectives:

Summarize and critically evaluate a research article.

Assess the soundness of research methods and study design.
Evaluate the presentation and analysis of data.
Identify strengths and weaknesses of the study.

Format:

Prepare a 2-3 page typewritten outline to be handed in. Suggested format:

Name
Date
Journal Article Reference
Introduction

Study objective
Justification for study

Methods

Research design
Inclusion/exclusion criteria
Treatment protocol
Statistical tests

Results
Discussion / Conclusion
Guidelines:

State the title of the article, authors, journal name, and issue.
Describe methods used in study. Summarize inclusion/exclusion criteria. Describe treatment given and tests to assess outcome.
Record results and specify which findings are statistically significant.
State the authors’ conclusion and be able to defend or dispute these conclusions. Discuss future implications to clinical practice.
Identify strengths and weaknesses of the study. Suggest improvements if possible.
Provide conclusions independent of the authors’ conclusions