Conducting a best evidence systematic review. Part 1: From idea to data coding. BEME Guide No. 13

Abstract

This paper outlines the essential aspects of conducting a systematic review of an educational topic beginning with the work needed once an initial idea for a review topic has been suggested through to the stage when all data from the selected primary studies has been coded. It draws extensively on the wisdom and experience of those who have undertaken systematic reviews of professional education, including Best Evidence Medical Education systematic reviews. Material from completed reviews is used to illustrate the practical application of the review processes discussed. The paper provides practical help to new review groups and contributes to the debate about ways of obtaining evidence (and what sort of evidence) to inform policy and practice in education.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Marilyn Hammick

MARILYN HAMMICK is a research and education consultant, visiting professor at Birmingham City and Anglia Ruskin universities and consultant to Best Evidence Medical Education. She is a member of the WHO study group on Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Care, past chair of the UK Centre for Interprofessional Education and Learning and teaching consultant for Research and Evaluation in Health Sciences and Practice at the UK Higher Education Academy. Other roles include associate editor, The Journal of Interprofessional Care and editorial board member, Medical Teacher.

Timothy Dornan

TIM DORNAN is professor of Medicine and Clinical Education at the University of Manchester, UK and honorary consultant physician, Salford Royal Hospital. He was convener of the BEME Review Group on ‘How can experience in clinical and community settings contribute to early medical education?’ and currently leads the BEME Review Group conducting ‘A review of the evidence linking conditions, processes and outcomes of clinical workplace learning.’

Yvonne Steinert

YVONNE STEINERT, a clinical psychologist, is professor of Family Medicine, associate dean for Faculty Development and the director of the Centre for Medical Education at McGill University, Montreal, Canada. She led the BEME Review Group that focused on ‘A systematic review of faculty development initiatives designed to improve teaching effectiveness in medical education’.