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Project

Multilevel Synthesis of Single-Case Experimental Data: Further Developments and Empirical Validation.

In single-case or single-subject designs (SSED), individual cases are measured repeatedly under different conditions, in order to assess the effect of the condition. Recently, multilevel models were proposed to combine the results of SSED studies, resulting in more general or detailed conclusions. The purpose of the proposed research is to empirically investigate the multilevel approach, using both real data and simulation studies. The research will entail several studies designed to address major complications encountered when syntesizing results from SSED research. Afirst set of studies deals with methodological issues and is designed for empirically validating the three-level model to synthesizing SSED data. Large computer-intensive Monte Carlo simulation studies are conductedto accomplish this. The first study will focus on the basis three-levelmodel for the meta-analysis of SSED studies with the same outcome. A series of additional studies will target complications encountered in the synthesis of SSED studies' results, including: standardization, externalevent effects, and misspecification issues.  The second set of studies is purposed for an applied audiance and practical illustrations aregiven. Several extensions to the multilevel model are discussed such asmodeling count outcomes, complex SSEDs, autocorrelation, including predicors, and combining different types of SSEDs.The intent of this dissertation is twofold. On the one hand, we empirically validate the basic three-level model and several extensions to it using large simulation studies and giving empirical illustrations. On the other hand, we want inform applied applied SSED researchers about the value of multilevel modeling of SSEDs and how to use these models. As a consequence, this dissertation is informative for methodologists, research analysts and synthesists, but also for applied SSED researchers.
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Date:1 Oct 2011 →  30 Sep 2017
Keywords:Multilevel, Single-subject design, Meta-analysis
Disciplines:Biological and physiological psychology, General psychology, Other psychology and cognitive sciences
Project type:PhD project