Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice Flashcards

When a decorative artist wants to evaluate a product manufacturer's evidence-based claims about a new medium, what is the most rigorous first step?

Answer: Check whether supporting studies were independently conducted or funded by the manufacturer

Industry-funded research carries a higher risk of bias, so determining who conducted and funded a study is a critical appraisal step.

A decorative artist reads two high-quality studies that reach contradictory conclusions about a technique. What is the evidence-based approach?

Answer: Seek additional studies or a systematic review to weigh the broader evidence

When studies conflict, examining the broader evidence base through additional research or a systematic review provides a more balanced and reliable basis for decisions.

How do professional associations contribute to evidence-based practice in the decorative arts?

Answer: By publishing practice guidelines derived from current research and expert consensus

Professional associations synthesize research and practitioner expertise into guidelines that translate evidence into actionable practice standards.

What is the key difference between 'best practice' and 'standard practice' in a professional context?

Answer: Best practice reflects the highest quality evidence; standard practice is what most practitioners commonly do

Best practice is evidence-driven and represents optimally effective approaches, whereas standard practice describes prevailing norms that may or may not align with the strongest evidence.

A practitioner wants to share expertise gained from client projects to advance knowledge in their field. Which method best contributes to the evidence base?

Answer: Writing up structured case studies for submission to a peer-reviewed journal

Structured, peer-reviewed case studies document methodology, outcomes, and context in ways that allow others to evaluate, replicate, and build on the findings.

Why is it important for practitioners to evaluate the date of publication when using research to guide practice?

Answer: Materials, techniques, and standards evolve, so older evidence may no longer be applicable

In fields where materials, technologies, or standards change over time, older research may reflect outdated products or methods no longer relevant to current practice.

Which scenario best demonstrates evidence-based practice in a decorative arts setting?

Answer: Selecting a sealant based on a systematic review of durability studies, then documenting outcomes

Evidence-based practice integrates the best available research, professional expertise, and documented outcomes to guide decision-making.