Solved: This is the correct link For the first article critique, read the article found at this

Identify Key Points Who is the “lead” author?Read the abstract and paraphrase it using 2 sentences. What is the research question, and what type of question is it?

The key point was to study the role of a computer generated slef learning intervention in reducing weight of the targettted group. Paraphrasing abstract,” A computer generation intervention resulted in increasing test scores ( an indicator of awareness). However, it did not affect any parameters which the study was interested to change ( Increased awareness did not led to improved final results).

Describe the research design. What is the population of interest, and what is the sample?

Research design used was in the form of A-B-A where we were studying the effect of an independent variable B ( computer based intervention) on dependent variable A ( Weight loss). The population of interest is the obese population, predominantly of low income group with almost 68% lower access to medical insurance. Sample size was 24.

Describe the key findings from the study. Did the authors make claims of causation? If so, is it appropriate to do so? If not, indicate how the study would have needed to change in order for the authors to make claims of causation.

Key findings of the study is that a non human, computer based weight management intervention improves after test scores. However, it does not effect after test BMI ( taken after three months).

Author makes claims of causation. Theit conculsion of “No improvement in BMI” helps in deducing that they assumed a causation effect which was not proved with observations.

Stage 2:

Evaluate and Critique Evaluate how well the research design matches the research question.

Research design was pretty useful in the form of dependent variable – independent variable – dependent variable ( A-B-A type). The sample size was pretty small. However, since it was a pilot study which is generally used to further modify research design, tools of measurement and redefining the questionnaire ( if any), redefining hypothesis ( if required), this study serves that limited purpose. However, with such a small sample size, it will not be safe to make conclusions on which public policy may be based.

Evaluate how well the sample was selected. Evaluate how well the sample represents the population.

Critique both the sample size AND the methods for recruitment and selection. Indicate how you would improve upon the sample selection.

Sample is quite biased. If we are selecting samples only with BMI>30, we are assuming that only chronically obese people require intervention. There is also an overweight category which requires intervention which has been neglected. Another important point is that specific income group has been considered. Though, they represent more in population, however, the sample is still not representative of all population in the state or country.

Lower income groups generally also have lower levels of education as well as lower level of skills in operating technology. It is quite possible that they are able to identify the right answer and but difficult for them to understand and follow in practical life