This guide is a work-in-progress!
For additional help or resources regarding the evidence synthesis process, please contact library.help@usu.edu.
Welcome to the Evidence Synthesis guide! This resource is designed to help faculty, staff, and students understand the process of evidence synthesis, including systematic reviews, and develop the skills necessary to conduct high-quality reviews.
Evidence synthesis involves the systematic searching of multiple databases, to provide a comprehensive understanding of a specific research question or topic. This method is essential for informing decision-making, guiding practice, and shaping policy in various fields, including healthcare, education, and social sciences. By consolidating evidence, we can identify patterns, evaluate effectiveness, and highlight gaps in knowledge.
In this guide, you will find valuable information on key concepts, methodologies, and tools for conducting evidence synthesis. We will cover topics such as systematic reviews, and scoping reviews, as well as tips for searching the literature, standards to follow, and overall methodology. Whether you are new to evidence synthesis or looking to refine your skills, this guide will provide the foundational knowledge and resources you need to successfully undertake your project.
What can USU librarians help with? |
Services USU Libraries cannot currently provide: |
Provide guidance on protocol publishing and reporting guidelines (PRISMA) |
Build search in conjunction with team and perform search translations in at least three databases |
Educate on search strategies |
Complete methodology section of a systematic review or provide data for PRISMA flowchart |
Educate and share tools for search translations |
Advise and facilitate retrieval of full-text articles for review and data extraction |
Assist with refining question |
Advise on critical appraisal steps |
Help determine if there are any relevant published research articles or reviews |
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advice on the selection and use of evidence synthesis software |
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Suggest databases to search |
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Provide resources and high-level strategies for searching gray literature |
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Provide guidance on title abstract screening and full-text review |
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Suggest ways to improve search |