ORCID
- Daniela Oehring: 0000-0003-2954-0548
Abstract
Purpose: To enhance statistical literacy in eye and vision Research through practical guidance on hypothesis testing, test selection, and interpreting inferential statistics. The goal is to reduce common analytical errors and support more clinically meaningful conclusions in ophthalmic studies.Material and Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify best practices in hypothesis testing, error control, and test selection relevant to clinical research in ophthalmologyand optometry. Simulated datasets, based on real-world clinical scenarios, were generated in Python to illustrate core concepts. Worked examples demonstrate the Impact of sample size, data distribution, and error type on statisticalconclusions.Results: Common misinterpretations of p-values and frequent misuse of statistical tests were identified. The review explains how reducing the significance level (α) increases Type II error risk unless the sample size is increased. A structured decision framework was developed to aid the choice between parametric and non-parametric tests, including when assumptions are violated. Simulations and clinical examples demonstrate how effect size, variability, and multiple testing adjustments affect results.Conclusion: Statistical missteps in eye research often arise from poor test selection, inadequate power, or overreliance on p-values without context. This article advocates for the use of confidence intervals, effect sizes, and ransparentreporting to enhance the credibility of research findings. Following structured analytic frameworks and established reporting guidelines (e. g. CONSORT, STROBE) helps ensure that statistical conclusions align with clinical relevance, ultimately supporting better patient care and more trustworthy research outcomes.
DOI Link
Publication Date
2025-08-29
Publication Title
Optometry & Contact Lenses
Volume
5
Issue
7
ISSN
2748-8217
Acceptance Date
2025-06-07
Deposit Date
2025-09-09
Keywords
Statistical Literacy, Eye and Vision Research, CLINICAL DECISION-MAKING, HYPOTHESIS TESTING, PARAMETRIC AND NON-PARAMETRIC TESTS, EFFECT SIZE, STATISTISCHE KOMPETENZ, AUGEN- UND SEHFORSCHUNG, HYPOTHESENTEST, PARAMETRISCHE UND NICHT-PARAMETRISCHE TESTS, EFFEKTSTÄRKE
First Page
218
Last Page
237
Recommended Citation
Oehring, D. (2025) 'Advancing Statistical Literacy in Eye Care: A Series for Enhanced Clinical Decision-Making (Biostatistik in Ophthalmologie und Optometrie: Eine Artikelserie zur Unterstützung evidenzbasierter Entscheidungsprozesse): Part 2: Statistical Testing in Eye and Vision Research – Principles and Practices (Teil 2: Statistische Tests – Prinzipien und Anwendung)', Optometry & Contact Lenses, 5(7), pp. 218-237. Available at: 10.54352/dozv.SMZT8871
