Background

Scoping reviews are a type of knowledge synthesis that are increasingly popular in the literature and are being requested by more decision-makers. Scoping reviews are conducted to map the literature on a topic, as well as identify key concepts, theories, sources of evidence, and knowledge gaps. There are many reasons that scoping reviews are conducted – as a precursor to a systematic review, to identify available evidence, analyse knowledge gaps, clarify concepts or definitions in the field, chart how research was conducted in an area, and identify characteristics/factors related to a concept. This workshop will provide participants with the fundamentals of scoping reviews regarding their conduct and reporting.

Aim

This workshop provides a definition of scoping reviews, describes when a scoping review is appropriate, as well describes as how they are conducted and reported.

Learning outcomes

In this course, participants will be enabled to:

• Define a scoping review
• Describe when a scoping review is most useful
• Outline the methods for the conduct of a scoping review according to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) latest guidance
• Use the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA ScR) checklist for the reporting of scoping reviews

Teaching strategies

This course will be interactive and consist of a short presentations and small group activity.

Course content/timetable

• 45-minute presentation on scoping reviews
• 15-minute Q&A period
• 30-minute small group activity 1 where participants will be asked to think about the methods to use for a hypothetical scoping review for decision-making
• 20-minute group reporting on small group activity 1
• 30-minute small group activity 2 where participants will be asked to rate the reporting of a recently published scoping review using the PRISMA-ScR
• 20-minute group reporting on small group activity 2
• 20-minute wrap up and review of lessons learned

Facilitator

Dr. Andrea C. Tricco, Director & Scientist, Knowledge Synthesis Team, Knowledge Translation Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Unity Health Toronto.