Analyzing the Evidence and Setting Inclusion Criteria in Scoping Reviews

Analyzing the Evidence and Setting Inclusion Criteria in Scoping Reviews

Scoping reviews play a crucial role in synthesizing existing evidence and providing an overview of a particular research topic. They help researchers identify gaps in knowledge and determine the scope and breadth of inquiry. In order to conduct a successful scoping review, it is important to carefully analyze the evidence and set clear inclusion criteria. In this article, we will explore the guidelines provided in the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis regarding the analysis of evidence and the establishment of inclusion criteria.

When it comes to the inclusion criteria, the JBI Manual emphasizes the need for clear articulation of the concept examined by the scoping review. The reasons for including or excluding particular participants should be explained in detail. Moreover, the context of the study should be clearly defined, taking into consideration cultural factors, geographic location, and specific interests based on race or gender. This comprehensive approach ensures that the scoping review captures a wide range of relevant evidence.

The sources of evidence for a scoping review can vary greatly, including primary research studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, letters, and guidelines. However, the JBI Manual does not recommend synthesizing the results or outcomes of these sources, as this is more appropriate for systematic reviews. Instead, scoping review authors may choose to extract and map the results descriptively, using simple frequency counts of concepts, populations, characteristics, or other fields of data. This approach provides a clear overview of the available evidence without delving into deeper analysis.

That being said, there are situations where a more in-depth analysis is necessary. In such cases, descriptive qualitative content analysis can be employed, including basic coding of data. However, the JBI Manual advises against undertaking thematic analysis or synthesis in scoping reviews. The purpose of a scoping review is to investigate the occurrence of concepts, characteristics, populations, etc., rather than exploring themes or relationships between variables.

Incorporating unique ideas and insights into a scoping review can greatly enhance its value. One potential approach is to connect the analysis of evidence with the setting of inclusion criteria. By examining the evidence and identifying common points, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the phenomena of interest. This, in turn, can inform the establishment of inclusion criteria, ensuring that the scoping review captures the most relevant and representative evidence available.

Based on the guidelines provided in the JBI Manual, here are three actionable pieces of advice for conducting an effective scoping review:

1. Clearly articulate the concept examined by the scoping review: By clearly defining the concept of interest, researchers can guide the scope and breadth of the inquiry. This ensures that the scoping review focuses on relevant evidence and avoids unnecessary inclusion or exclusion of participants.

2. Consider the context, including cultural factors: When setting inclusion criteria, it is important to consider the context in which the research is conducted. This can include geographic location and specific interests based on culture, race, or gender. Taking these factors into account ensures a comprehensive and representative scoping review.

3. Use simple frequency counts for basic analysis: In most cases, a scoping review requires a descriptive overview of the evidence. Utilizing simple frequency counts of concepts, populations, characteristics, or other data fields is often sufficient. This approach provides a clear snapshot of the available evidence without the need for more advanced analytical methods.

In conclusion, the analysis of evidence and the establishment of inclusion criteria are crucial steps in conducting a scoping review. By following the guidelines provided in the JBI Manual, researchers can ensure that their scoping reviews are comprehensive, relevant, and informative. Clear articulation of the concept and careful consideration of the context contribute to the success of the review. Additionally, using simple frequency counts for basic analysis provides a clear overview of the evidence, while more in-depth analysis should be limited to specific situations. By incorporating these guidelines and actionable advice, researchers can conduct effective scoping reviews that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.