Introduction to Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Course Syllabus

Overview: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of systematic reviews and meta-analyses, essential for evidence-based healthcare research. Designed for beginners, it guides learners through each stage of the process—from formulating research questions to reporting findings. With approximately 13 hours of flexible, self-paced learning, the course includes practical exercises and peer feedback to reinforce skills. Developed by experts at Johns Hopkins University, it equips participants with foundational knowledge applicable in clinical research, public health, and policy settings.

Module 1: Introduction

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Understand the role and importance of systematic reviews and meta-analyses in clinical research
• Identify key producers and users of systematic reviews
• Recognize the differences between traditional reviews and systematic approaches

Module 2: Framing the Question

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Formulate answerable research questions using the PICO framework
• Define participants, interventions, comparisons, and outcomes clearly
• Refine the scope of a review question
• Apply analytic frameworks to structure research inquiries

Module 3: Searching Principles and Bias Assessment

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Develop comprehensive literature search strategies
• Identify key databases and sources for systematic reviews
• Learn methods to minimize selection bias in literature searches
• Assess risk of bias in clinical trials using standardized tools

Module 4: Data Extraction and Synthesis

Estimated time: 3 hours

• Extract data effectively from clinical trial reports
• Manage and organize extracted data systematically
• Understand methods for qualitative and quantitative data synthesis
• Explore commonly used tools and software for data extraction

Module 5: Meta-Analysis Techniques

Estimated time: 3 hours

• Learn statistical methods for combining study results
• Interpret forest plots and other visual outputs
• Understand heterogeneity and its implications in meta-analysis

Module 6: Reporting and Presenting Findings

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Write systematic review reports following PRISMA guidelines
• Present findings effectively to diverse stakeholders
• Address ethical considerations in reporting

Module 7: Final Project

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Submit a completed systematic review protocol
• Conduct a mini meta-analysis using provided data
• Peer review another learner's draft report

Prerequisites

• Familiarity with basic medical or health science terminology
• Basic understanding of research study designs, particularly clinical trials
• No prior experience in statistics required, but willingness to engage with basic biostatistical concepts

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Conduct a systematic review following international standards
• Formulate focused, answerable research questions using PICO
• Perform comprehensive literature searches and assess study quality
• Synthesize evidence through qualitative and quantitative methods
• Produce a well-reported review adhering to PRISMA guidelines