Seminar #61: Controversies in randomized trials

There are many controversies in the use of randomized trials to develop new research models. We will examine some of the strengths and weaknesses of the randomized trial and highlight research situations where a randomized trial is either unethical, impractical, or unrealistic.

In this class you will learn how to:

• understand the ethical constraints that prevent randomization;
• highlight the special problems with conducting randomized trials of alternative medicine; and
• explain the importance of temporality in establishing a cause and effect relationship.

This class qualifies for 1 IRB Education Credit (IRBEC).

Contents

• Abstract
• Where can I find this handout?
• Criticisms of randomized clinical trials
• Temporality of causes
• Constraints on randomization