STATISTINE METODE V EPIDEMIOLOGIJI

learning with experience in small groups based on global worked example using high
quality computer programme is used, combined with large group methods, being
introductory lecture and demonstration (method demonstration, as well as result
demonstration). Occasionally, “buzz” groups method is used.
Size of groups
In a large group, there are 12-18 students.
In each small group there are no more than three students with optimal number
of two. Every single small group of students, together with a computer constitutes one
working unit. The students are distributed considering following criteria, if possible:
• one student in a group is familiar with working on a computer;
• one student is not a beginner of a postgraduate specialistic study of public
health.
This approach enables students to actively share their knowledge and help
themselves inside each small group.
Other active involvement
Additionally, discussion inside groups is stimulated, as well as discussion between
groups. Also, the comparison of results between working units, whenever possible, is
stimulated.
Data material and teaching tools
Data material
For already several years at teaching statistical methods in public health in Slovenia
data collection which enables learning such methods in quite a pleasant way has been
used. These are the data collecting within the Perinatal Informational System of
Slovenia (PISS) (44), which is considered to be one of the permanent collections of
medical data of the highest quality with the many years' tradition. It was started in
1987 when collection of data started on a uniform form in all Slovene maternity
hospitals.
Data material for teaching is only a small piece out of the whole collection
PISS, prepared especially for this purpose. Safeguard of personal data is assured so
that all personal identificators have been removed. Moreover, only the data are
selected from the whole collection which shall be used for the teaching purpose.
Special attention was paid to include such data, which are possible to play the role of
the “effect” as well as the data which can play the role of “cause”. Also, they are
chosen to have diverse statistical characteristics as to be able to represent the majority
of statistical methods.
The basic data material for all statistical activities is composed of more than
6000 statistical units, representing the model of a population. For teaching different
statistical methods, samples of various sizes are then randomly selected from the
population database. The smallest sample is composed of 30 units and the largest one
of 800 units. The students shall select some of such samples from the population
while performing practical work by themselves and others shall be prepared by the
teacher. First ones are, on principle, different at each working place and shall be, at
the end of the corresponding exercise, deleted by the students or by the teacher.
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