187.655.81
Evidence-Based Toxicology

Prerequisite:

Introduction to Online Learning is required prior to participating in any of the School's Internet-based courses. 187.610 Public Health Toxicology

Description:

The National Toxicology Program, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and authorities worldwide are increasingly embracing the concepts of systematic reviews, meta-analysis, risk-of-bias, and quality assurance. Evidence-based toxicology (EBT) is a rapidly evolving discipline that represents a way to transparently and consistently evaluate scientific evidence, which can then be applied to address critical questions in toxicology. EBT is especially useful in the fields of regulatory toxicology and risk assessment, where numerous studies must be considered, weighed, and integrated to support decision-making.

Provides students with fundamental knowledge about EBT approaches currently in use (or in development) that integrate and utilize diverse sources of data. These approaches include meta-analysis and systematic reviews, as used in evidence-based medicine. Introduces, explains, and expands upon techniques such as the risk of bias, QA/QC, good laboratory practice and validation, and the role that these tools and techniques play in assuring maximum confidence in evidence-based approaches.

Learning Objectives:

Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:

1. Discuss the advantages of evidence-based and bioinformatics approaches
2. Describe the principles of systematic review and meta-analysis
3. Explain quality assurance schemes in scientific work
4. Explain the basis of validation processes
5. Identify reasons for bias in scientific work
6. Apply quality scoring to published studies

Methods of Assessment:

60% two exams, 40% assignments

Instructor Consent:

No consent required