Analysis
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Machine Learning (ML) | A computer programming technique particularly suited to identifying patterns or rules in large amounts of data. Rather than beginning with a fixed set of rules, an ML program builds up ("learns") a set of likely rules by processing many example datasets (this stage of ML is known as "training"). When the set of likely rules is complete, the ML program can apply them to new datasets and offer a likely prediction (this stage is known as "inference"). For example: an ML program trained to recognise car numberplates would be trained on many pictures of car numberplates, building up a set of likely rules that will enable to program to "recognise" car numberplates in the future. See also: Machine Learning (ML) 🔗. |
| Natural Language Processing (NLP) | A field of artificial intelligence (AI) that enables computer software to analyse, interpret, and generate human language. NLP allows machines to extract meaningful information from text, identify key details, uncover patterns, and detect trends within large volumes of text data, but faces challenges because words can have different meanings depending on their context, and the software cannot understand emotions or the intentions behind why certain words were chosen. Examples of NLP in the TRE space include: identifying symptoms, diagnoses and treatments in electronic health records; identifying references to mental health concerns such as suicidial thoughts, self-harm, or changes in mode from clinicians notes; and programs to automatically identify patients based on eligibility criteria for research studies or clinical trials, employment history or status over time, or students' academic progression over time. |
| Qualitative Analysis | Analysis without numbers means studying information based on qualities rather than quantities. Instead of focusing on numbers and statistics, this type of analysis looks at themes. It often involves interpretation and exploration, trying to understand the meaning behind the information. For example: Qualitative analysis would be the best way to process interviews with people in which their perspectives and experiences were recorded. |
| Quantitative Analysis | Analysis using numbers means studying data by focusing on quantities and measurements. This involves using mathematical and statistical methods to analyse and interpret the information. Researchers look at numerical values, such as counts, percentages, averages, or correlations, to gain insights and draw conclusions from the data. This type of analysis allows for objective and quantitative assessment of trends, patterns, and relationships within the data. |