Workshop type: Training.

Objective: To help consumers make sense of scientific evidence through discussion of (i) different ways of testing whether health treatments work; (ii) why randomized controlled trials are considered to be the best way of assessing the effectiveness of treatments; and (iii) the importance of systematic reviews.

Summary:
This friendly and interactive workshop aims to help consumers develop the skills needed to make sense of scientific evidence.  It will help consumers appreciate the importance of evidence-based care and understand randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews.  It will also assist in explaining issues around evidence-based care in a way that consumers can understand. 

Participants will have an opportunity, in small groups, to comment on how trustworthy they think a research paper is and to discuss how useful the information in the paper might be in their l ocal situation (critical appraisal).  

All consume rs are welcome and should be able to enjoy the workshop and learn whatever their current level of knowledge.

Intended audience: Consumers.

Technical level expected of participants: Basic.