Narrative vs systematic vs scoping review | What’s the difference?

Summary

In this video, the speaker elucidates the differences between narrative reviews, systematic reviews, and scoping reviews in research. A systematic review aims to evaluate existing studies rigorously to inform best practices and policies, while a scoping review maps existing literature without critical appraisal. In contrast, a narrative review summarizes research more subjectively, lacking a structured methodology. The video provides clear examples to help viewers identify each type of review and encourages them to choose the most suitable approach for their research needs. Viewers are invited to engage further through comments and questions.

Takeaways

• 😀 A systematic review identifies and analyzes research studies to recommend best practices and inform policy.
• 🤔 A scoping review maps existing research on a topic without critical appraisal, focusing on identifying gaps in literature.
• 📜 A narrative review summarizes research but lacks systematic methodologies, making it more subjective and biased.
• 🔍 Systematic and scoping reviews follow a priori protocols, while narrative reviews do not.
• 🗂️ Scoping and systematic reviews use explicit, peer-reviewed search strategies, unlike narrative reviews.
• 📊 Data extraction forms are standardized in scoping and systematic reviews but are not present in narrative reviews.
• ⚖️ Critical appraisal is mandatory in systematic reviews but not in scoping or narrative reviews.
• 🔗 Synthesis of findings is primarily done in systematic reviews, while scoping and narrative reviews typically do not synthesize data.
• 📖 Identifying review types involves looking at the title and structure; narrative reviews may lack a method section.
• 💡 Understanding these differences helps researchers choose the right type of review for their research objectives.

Q & A

What is the primary aim of a systematic review?

The primary aim of a systematic review is to identify and synthesize research studies on a specific topic to recommend best practices and inform policy.

How does a scoping review differ from a systematic review?

A scoping review aims to map out existing research on a topic without a critical appraisal process, whereas a systematic review involves a rigorous methodology and critical appraisal of the studies included.

What is a key characteristic of narrative reviews?

Narrative reviews, also known as traditional reviews, summarize available research without following a systematic process, making them more subjective and prone to bias.

Why are systematic reviews considered more reliable than narrative reviews?

Systematic reviews are considered more reliable because they follow rigorous protocols, involve critical appraisal of studies, and aim for transparency and reproducibility in their methods.

What type of information is typically included in a scoping review?

Scoping reviews include inclusion criteria, a detailed methods section, and a results section that presents the findings in a structured manner, often using tables.

What should you look for in the title of a systematic review?

The title of a systematic review often includes the phrase 'systematic review' or 'meta-analysis', indicating its methodology and scope.

How can you identify a narrative review in a journal article?

A narrative review may not explicitly state its type in the title. Look for the absence of a methods section typical in primary studies and a structure more aligned with summarizing existing literature.

What are the implications of bias in narrative reviews?

Bias in narrative reviews can lead to misleading conclusions since they rely heavily on the author's background knowledge and interpretation of the literature.

What is the role of multiple reviewers in systematic and scoping reviews?

The inclusion of multiple reviewers in systematic and scoping reviews helps reduce error and increase the reliability of the data extracted.

Where can researchers find additional resources on systematic reviews?

Researchers can find additional resources and guidance on systematic reviews in dedicated playlists or channels focused on research methodologies, such as the Research Mastermind's YouTube channel.