PHPS40980 Introduction to Knowledge Synthesis, Systematic Reviews & Meta-analysis

Academic Year 2020/2021

This module provides an introduction to the different methodologies used in Knowledge Synthesis (narrative reviews, systematic reviews, meta-analysis, scoping reviews, literature maps & frameworks, rapid reviews). Students will learn to read a knowledge synthesis document as well as to plan a KS project.

The module is intended to guide students with their literature reviews or SR. The aim is for students to understand how systematic reviews can assist in decision-making for research or decision-making in their future workplace.

This is an introductory course suitable for students with no previous experience in conducting systematic reviews.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module students will be able to:
• Understand the role that Knowledge Synthesis has in decision-making, policy-making and , also, in planning research.
• Describe the different types of literature review, their methodology, strengths, limitations, and sources of bias.
. Construct a literature framework in their area of interest.
• Identify the key elements of knowledge synthesis.

• Critical appraise a knowledge synthesis paper
• Identify the steps needed to conduct a Systematic Review and understand the statistical basis of MA.
• Apply the learned skills to improve the literature review of research proposals, Master thesis and PhD thesis.

Indicative Module Content:

evidence-based decision making.
Types of knowledge synthesis
Literature framework
Systematic reviews ( including scoping reviews and narrative reviews)
Defining the scope of an SR (question)
Search strategy
The statistical basis of Meta-analysis
Critically appraising a knowledge synthesis document

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

18

Autonomous Student Learning

80

Online Learning

6

Total

104

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
This module would be on-line for the Autumn trimester (Academic Year 2020/2021).
The students would be able to complete week by week the activities with a mix of virtual learning classrooms and self-directed activities.


 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations
Learning Recommendations:

The module is structured to understand the basics of knowledge synthesis approaches using students knowledge synthesis questions. or decision-making questions.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Multiple Choice Questionnaire (Short): Multiple Choice Questionnaire Throughout the Trimester n/a Graded Yes

20

Presentation: Decision-making scenario, PICO question/similar, search strategy, appraisal of 2 studies. Week 12 n/a Graded Yes

40

Assignment: Decision-making scenario, appraisal of an already published knowledge synthesis paper Week 6 n/a Graded Yes

40


Carry forward of passed components
No
 
Remediation Type Remediation Timing
In-Module Resit Prior to relevant Programme Exam Board
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Group/class feedback, post-assessment
• Online automated feedback
• Peer review activities
• Self-assessment activities

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Midterm Assignment: Peer review feedback End of trimester presentation: Feedback after the presentation

Systematic Reviews to Answer Health Care Questions
Heidi D. Nelson
Available @UCD (on-line reading)
The book provides the basics to conduct systematic reviews in any field.