Introduction to Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Methods

BST 225 Subject & Catalog Number

Description

This course provides an introduction to the rationale, methods, and implications for conducting a systematic review of research findings. Students learn how to use a variety of formal and informal methods for conducting systematic reviews: searching research databases and using reference management software; approaches to identifying and evaluating information from randomized controlled trials and observational studies; statistical methods for meta-analysis and analyzing sources of heterogeneity; and approaches for assessing the strength of the evidence, and translating the results into policy and practice guidelines. Principles and methods for conducting systematic and quantitative reviews are illustrated through case studies of public health and medical issues, with emphasis on exploring sources of heterogeneity. 
 
Requires strong quantitative skills as well as knowledge of the design, analysis, evaluation, and interpretation of randomized clinical trials and observational/epidemiological studies. MPH-level courses in biostatistics and epidemiology are a pre-requisite or a co-requisite.
 
Priority for enrollment will be given to students in the Program for Clinical Effectiveness (PCE). Non-degree students must provide evidence of the necessary knowledge and ability (e.g. grades in quantitative courses taken, test scores). 
 
Note: it takes a team to successfully conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis. Thus, because this course stresses the practice of systematic review as well as formal tools for meta-analysis, the majority of the work (and the assessment) will be conducted in groups, which will each conduct a full systematic review and meta-analysis. Teaching staff will work with students throughout the semester to form groups on topics of common interest, to review and revise topics and literature search strategies, and to analyze meta-analysis results. Each group will do two oral presentations of their preliminary work to receive feedback from the teaching staff and other students.