title: How to Interpret and Critique Neuroimaging Research: A Tutorial on Use of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Clinical Populations.
abstract: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), an influential experimental approach, provides valuable information about clinical disorders that can be used to select and/or refine speech and language interventions. Functional MRI (fMRI) in particular is becoming a widespread methodological tool for investigating speech and language. However, because MRI is relatively new and complex, potential consumers need to be able to critically assess the methods used in order to appraise results and conclusions. The authors offer a tutorial that (a) relays foundational knowledge related to the collection and analysis of MRI data in general and fMRI data specifically and (b) presents strategies for evaluating studies that utilize fMRI methods.
  
  
  
  This tutorial outlines methodological considerations that should be addressed by fMRI researchers and noted by consumers of the research, including clinicians and behavioral researchers who work with neurogenic communication disorders.
  
  
  
  Readers will be able to evaluate a neuroimaging publication and identify the methodological strengths and weaknesses that potentially influence the integrity of reported findings and interpretations.
  
  
  
  This tutorial provides information and strategies that can be used to critically evaluate studies that collect, analyze, and interpret fMRI data. The tutorial concludes with a summary checklist to guide critical appraisal.
authors.forename: Brea
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Chouinard
authors.forename: Carol
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Boliek
authors.forename: Jacqueline
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Cummine
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D007802:Language; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D059906:Neuroimaging; D012106:Research; D013060:Speech; D013064:Speech Disorders / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*