Journal Article Review (Following the Scientific Method)

As a public health professional, you might come across questions or assumptions about a real world health phenomenon. In biostatistics, these questions and assumptions are narrowed down into a research question. Some examples of research questions include: “Does exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) effect brain development in infants and young children?” and “Is there a relationship between low self-esteem and eating disorders?”
In reflecting on a proposed research question and reviewing the literature, researchers form a hypothesis, which is an essential component of the scientific method (Harris, 2014). Once the hypothesis and study methods are formed, data must be collected and analyzed to determine whether the data supports or rejects the hypothesis. The scientific method includes the steps a public health professional or researcher should follow to arrive at the appropriate conclusion about the hypothesis.
Download and read the journal article assigned by your instructor. (They should post it to DocSharing, the Optional Discussion area, an Announcement, or send through email.) Reflect on the steps to the scientific method and how such relates to the study that was conducted.
The Assignment (1–2 pages)

Summarize the purpose of the study
Identify the stated or implied hypothesis [or expected outcome(s)]
Describe the variables examined in the study
Summarize the research methodology used in carrying out the study including the following:

Study participants
Study design utilized
Procedures used to gather data
Type(s) of statistical analysis/analyses used