We are excited to share the release of our new Cochrane Interactive Learning module on conducting living systematic reviews.
A living systematic review is continually updated to incorporate newly emerging evidence as it becomes available. The approach involves frequent cycles of searching, screening, appraisal, and integration of new data. This approach is increasingly valuable in dynamic research areas where evidence evolves quickly.
Developed with the expertise of Dr Rebecca Hodder at the University of Newcastle and Dr Steve McDonald at Monash University, this new module benefits from their deep background in evidence synthesis and living systematic reviews.
As the fourteenth module in the Cochrane Interactive Learning series, it provides learners with an understanding of the principles and methods for producing reviews that remain accurate, reliable, and continually updated.
The new module explains what a living systematic review is, when it is appropriate, and how to plan and conduct one. It covers the distinguishing features of a living systematic review, including searching for and selecting studies, synthesizing findings, reporting practices, and effective dissemination.
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Describe the key characteristics of a living systematic review
- Determine when a living systematic review is appropriate
- Understand the additional elements needed for living systematic review protocols
- Determine the minimum search frequency for a living systematic review
- Establish when search results should be screened
- Recognize triggers for updating a review
- Communicate review status clearly at and between updates
- Identify when it is appropriate to transition a review out of living mode
If you are keen to get involved with living systematic reviews and don't know where to start, this module provides the essential knowledge to get you underway.
