How to Conduct a Scoping Review
Introduction
- Name: Gayle Davison, first-year PhD student
- Institution: Queen's University Belfast
- Purpose: Outline the steps to complete a scoping literature review
Definitions
- Scoping Review: A form of knowledge synthesis addressing an exploratory research question aimed at mapping key concepts and types of evidence to outline gaps by systematically searching, selecting, and synthesizing existing knowledge.
- Systematic Review: Focused question (e.g., effectiveness of treatment A vs. B), includes a protocol, quality checks, and detailed data extraction. Primarily quantitative.
Comparison: Scoping Review vs. Systematic Review
- Systematic Review: Focused, quality assessment, and quantitative.
- Scoping Review: Broad, flexible, minimal quality assessment, qualitative, maps evidence, identifies gaps, and can be a precursor to further research.
Evolution of Scoping Reviews
- First significant publication: Arksey and O'Malley's paper in 2005.
- Subsequent important publications: Levac, Colquhoun, O'Brien, and the Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewers’ Manual.
- Increasingly popular due to usefulness in unfamiliar or underexplored topics.
Six-Step Methodological Framework
- Define the Research Question
- Find Relevant Articles
- Study Selection
- Data Extraction
- Clarity and Summarizing Results
- Consultation Exercise
Steps in Detail
Step 1: Define the Research Question
- Combine a broad question with a specific context of inquiry.
- Identify the population, concept, and context.
- Consider the rationale and purpose of the study.
- Iteratively refine the research question after piloting.
Step 2: Find Relevant Articles
- Seek librarian advice.
- Conduct preliminary search and pilot exercise.
- Modify search strategy iteratively.
- Consider inclusion of gray literature.
- Use reference managers to organize and exclude duplicates.
Step 3: Study Selection
- Set inclusion and exclusion criteria.
- Modify criteria based on the iterative nature of the review.
- Possibly set a deadline for study inclusion.
- Consider using a second reviewer or consultation with peers and supervisors.
- Use Prisma flow chart for documenting reviewed articles.
Step 4: Data Extraction
- Create and refine a data charting form (e.g., using Excel).
- Two reviewers recommended, but not always feasible.
- Capture relevant information aligned with research aims.
Step 5: Clarity and Summarizing Results
- Conduct numerical and qualitative analysis.
- Report results in alignment with research questions and objectives.
- Discuss implications for future research, practice, and policy.
Step 6: Consultation Exercise
- Sometimes published separately; involves additional work.
- Establish the purpose, compile preliminary findings, identify participants, and outline data collection strategy (e.g., focus groups, interviews).
- Ensure knowledge transfer and analyze consultation data.
Practical Experience and Recommendations
- Personal example: Scoping review on children's experiences of healthcare.
- Iterative process with lightbulb moments leading to refinements.
- Importance of defining key terms and narrowing focus.
- Iterative adjustments to inclusion criteria, focus on qualitative data from primary subjects (children's quotations).
Tips for Success
- Construct a research protocol of intent, be open to iterative refinements.
- Talk to people regularly, even outside of academia.
- Keep a research journal for reflections and plans.
- Use organizational tools like Microsoft Office and reference managers.
Conclusion
- Completing a scoping review is time-consuming but rewarding.
- Stay organized, seek advice, and enjoy the process.
References Available on Request