NIeCer 104: Introduction to Systematic Reviews for Dental Health Professionals

ABOUT:This course is part of the series of courses on health research offered by ICMR-NIE. Systematic reviews, as a method of conducting research synthesis, are becoming common. They provide much needed evidence in areas which lack a concrete consensus and are considered cornerstones of forming practice and policy guidelines. This course was born out of the need felt among dental health professionals across the country to understand the basic principles of conducting a systematic review. Over the course of our lectures, the participants will be able to grasp the most essential steps and understand the various activities involved while carrying out a systematic review. We expect the course to be useful to dental health professionals who have minimal to no exposure to systematic reviews.INTENDED AUDIENCE: Any dental health researcherINDUSTRY SUPPORT:Government/ private sector, public health service institutions/ agencies, Post graduate institutions in biomedical and allied sciences, Dental colleges / Universities, NGOs engaged in health research, Clinical research organizations, Pharma companies and marketing research organizations

COURSE CONTENTS

The course includes 8 lectures (as shown below) covering the various concepts and step involved in conducting a systematic review. Learning materials will include - video lectures, lecture handouts and additional reading/resource materials.

1. Overview of Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
2. Framing the review question
3. Framing the eligibility criteria
4. Sources of literature
5. Strategies for searching the evidence
6. Screening, selection and data abstraction process
7. Assessing bias and data synthesis
8. PRISMA- P and protocol registration

ASSIGNMENTS

• All lectures will have online assignments consisting of 5 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Thus, the ‘total assignment score’ sums to a maximum of 40.

CRITERIA TO GET A CERTIFICATE

• A minimum of 70% in total assignment score is necessary for successful completion and certification.

COURSE PROCESS



COURSE TIMELINE