Scoping Reviews and Evidence Mapping Training Course

Scoping Reviews and Evidence Mapping Training Course

Introduction

In today’s rapidly evolving research landscape, synthesizing evidence efficiently and comprehensively is crucial for informed decision-making and evidence-based practice. Scoping reviews and evidence mapping have emerged as essential methodologies for mapping research trends, identifying knowledge gaps, and informing policy and clinical practice. Scoping Reviews and Evidence Mapping Training Course equips researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers with advanced skills in systematic evidence synthesis, data visualization, and knowledge translation, empowering them to conduct high-quality, reproducible scoping reviews and evidence maps.

Through hands-on training and real-world case studies, participants will gain expertise in literature search strategies, data extraction, evidence charting, and critical appraisal. Leveraging modern digital tools and AI-assisted research methods, this course fosters skills in research synthesis automation, interactive evidence mapping, and stakeholder-informed evidence interpretation. By the end of the program, participants will be able to generate actionable insights, produce high-impact reports, and contribute to evidence-based decision-making in healthcare, policy, and academic research.

Course Duration

5 days

Course Objectives

1. Master the methodology of scoping reviews and evidence mapping.
2. Develop advanced systematic literature search strategies using multiple databases.
3. Gain expertise in data extraction, charting, and synthesis of evidence.
4. Learn to identify knowledge gaps and emerging research trends.
5. Apply AI-assisted tools for efficient literature screening and mapping.
6. Understand methodological frameworks such as Arksey & O’Malley and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI).
7. Enhance skills in visual evidence presentation and interactive mapping.
8. Conduct critical appraisal of heterogeneous research evidence.
9. Translate evidence into policy recommendations and clinical practice insights.
10. Design reproducible workflows for transparent research synthesis.
11. Utilize PRISMA-ScR guidelines and reporting standards for scoping reviews.
12. Integrate stakeholder perspectives in evidence-informed decision-making.
13. Develop publication-ready evidence maps and scoping review manuscripts.

Target Audience

1. Researchers and academicians in healthcare, social sciences, and public health.
2. Policy analysts and government research advisors.
3. Clinical practitioners interested in evidence-based practice.
4. Librarians and information specialists involved in systematic searches.
5. Graduate and postgraduate students in research-intensive programs.
6. Healthcare consultants and think-tank professionals.
7. NGOs and public health organizations conducting knowledge synthesis.
8. Evidence synthesis methodologists and systematic review teams.

Course Modules

Module 1: Introduction to Scoping Reviews and Evidence Mapping

• Definition, purpose, and applications
• Differences between scoping reviews, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses
• Overview of evidence mapping frameworks
• Key reporting guidelines
• Case Study: Mapping COVID-19 telemedicine research globally

Module 2: Formulating Research Questions and Protocol Development

• Identifying objectives and scope
• Using PCC (Population, Concept, Context) framework
• Drafting a structured review protocol
• Incorporating stakeholder perspectives
• Case Study: Evidence mapping of adolescent mental health interventions

Module 3: Systematic Literature Search Strategies

• Database selection and search strings
• Boolean operators and advanced search techniques
• Grey literature and preprint inclusion
• Reference management tools
• Case Study: Search strategy development for nutrition interventions in LMICs

Module 4: Study Selection and Screening Process

• Inclusion/exclusion criteria and eligibility assessment
• Title, abstract, and full-text screening workflow
• Using AI-assisted screening tools
• Minimizing selection bias
• Case Study: Screening global research on antimicrobial stewardship

Module 5: Data Extraction and Evidence Charting

• Designing extraction forms and data templates
• Quantitative and qualitative data collection
• Tools for automated extraction
• Data consistency checks and validation
• Case Study: Charting digital health interventions in elderly care

Module 6: Data Synthesis and Evidence Mapping

• Methods for narrative and descriptive synthesis
• Visualization techniques: heat maps, bubble plots, dashboards
• Integrating heterogeneous evidence types
• Identifying research gaps and trends
• Case Study: Mapping AI applications in radiology research

Module 7: Critical Appraisal and Quality Assessment

• Frameworks for assessing methodological quality
• Appraisal of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies
• Evaluating robustness of evidence maps
• Bias identification and mitigation strategies
• Case Study: Appraising interventions for chronic disease prevention

Module 8: Reporting, Knowledge Translation, and Publication

• PRISMA-ScR reporting checklist
• Writing actionable summaries for stakeholders
• Creating interactive dashboards and visual reports
• Strategies for publication and dissemination
• Case Study: Translating scoping review findings into policy briefs

Training Methodology

This course employs a participatory and hands-on approach to ensure practical learning, including:

• Interactive lectures and presentations.
• Group discussions and brainstorming sessions.
• Hands-on exercises using real-world datasets.
• Role-playing and scenario-based simulations.
• Analysis of case studies to bridge theory and practice.
• Peer-to-peer learning and networking.
• Expert-led Q&A sessions.
• Continuous feedback and personalized guidance.

Register as a group from 3 participants for a Discount

Send us an email: info@datastatresearch.org or call +254724527104 

Certification

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a globally- recognized certificate.

Tailor-Made Course

 We also offer tailor-made courses based on your needs.

Key Notes

a. The participant must be conversant with English.

b. Upon completion of training the participant will be issued with an Authorized Training Certificate

c. Course duration is flexible and the contents can be modified to fit any number of days.

d. The course fee includes facilitation training materials, 2 coffee breaks, buffet lunch and A Certificate upon successful completion of Training.

e. One-year post-training support Consultation and Coaching provided after the course.

f. Payment should be done at least a week before commence of the training, to DATASTAT CONSULTANCY LTD account, as indicated in the invoice so as to enable us prepare better for you.