RAA Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice 2

Question 1

Which statistical measure describes how spread out data points are around the mean in annuity performance studies?

Accepted Answer

Standard deviation

Answer

Standard deviation measures the dispersion of data points around the mean, indicating variability in annuity returns.

Question 2

An advisor reviews a study showing that variable annuity holders who rebalance annually outperform those who do not. What type of study design is most likely used?

Accepted Answer

Longitudinal cohort study

Answer

A longitudinal cohort study follows the same group over time, making it ideal for comparing outcomes between rebalancers and non-rebalancers.

Question 3

In evidence-based practice, what does 'peer review' primarily ensure about published research?

Accepted Answer

Independent expert evaluation of methodology and findings

Answer

Peer review subjects research to independent expert scrutiny, increasing confidence in the validity of the methodology and conclusions.

Question 4

A researcher finds that states with higher annuity sales also have higher retirement savings rates. Without further analysis, this is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Correlation, not causation

Answer

Observing that two variables move together only establishes correlation; establishing causation requires controlling for confounding variables.

Question 5

When evaluating annuity product suitability research, which source hierarchy level is generally considered the highest quality evidence?

Accepted Answer

Systematic review or meta-analysis

Answer

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses synthesize findings from multiple studies, providing the highest level of evidence in the evidence hierarchy.

(RAA) Registered Annuity Advisor Practice Test

(RAA) Registered Annuity Advisor Practice Test

RAA Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice 2