Quasi-experimental methods group

Quasi-experimental studies evaluate the association between an intervention and an outcome, using experiments in which the intervention is not randomly assigned. Unlike traditional observational studies, quasi-experimental studies attempt to compare the exposed group against a non-intervention control group, and to control for potential confounding variables that may influence a participant’s exposure to the intervention.   

Quasi-experimental design studies are appealing for public health research because they:

• Enable the evaluation of interventions that are difficult or impossible to manipulate experimentally due to logistical, political or ethical constraint
• Can be used to evaluate the impact of large events such as pandemics, changes to the economy or policy changes
• Allow for retrospective evaluation of historical data
• Test effectiveness more than efficacy, as they evaluate the real-world use of an intervention, and include patients that are often excluded in RCTs. The results of such studies are potentially more informative for policy-makers.
• Are often less expensive and time consuming than RCTs
• If well designed, can provide some information on causation (though RCTs remain the gold standard)

Born in Bradford has a growing number of researchers with experience and interest in the use of quasi-experimental methods (QEM). The QEM group is an opportunity for those interested to discuss and learn about different types of quasi-experimental study designs and their key methodological considerations, hear examples of previously-conducted studies and experiences using QEM, and think about opportunities for the use of QEM using data collected from the BIB cohort.

The QEM group meetings are held monthly with a hybrid in-person and online format. Recordings of the monthly talks, as well as links to presentation slides, relevant studies and other useful resources can be accessed below.

Group co-ordinators: Joe Pryce (joe.pryce@bthft.nhs.uk) and Dan Lewer (dan.lewer@bthft.nhs.uk)