Systematic Reviews
It is becoming more common that policy interventions should be based on best available evidence. The purpose of a systematic review is to sum up the best available research on a specific question.
This is done by synthesizing the results of several studies. Participants will explore the range of existing approaches to, and methods for, research synthesis. The course will provide hands-on application of several commonly applied methods (including the procedures proposed by the Campbell/Cochrane Collaborations). The course uses material from a range of policy areas and will explore different kinds of review questions. Participants will be introduced to different methods for synthesizing both a range of study designs and qualitative and quantitative data, although there is an emphasis on synthesizing quantitative data (meta-analysis). To help participants consider the role played by systematic reviews within evidence-based decision making, this course also includes discussion of the opportunities and challenges that systematic reviews pose.
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Course structure
After having completed the course, students are expected to be able to: -characterize and explain the steps in the systematic review process (problem formulation, identification of studies, data extraction, study quality appraisal, synthesis, dissemination).
-critically appraise and interpret meta-analyses of quantitative research evidence.
-understand the fundamental problems related to internal and external validity, and be able to reflect and argue for its consequences for applying social science research in practice.
-conduct oneself critical to the role played by systematic reviews in policy and practice decisions.
Teaching format
The course is offered full-time over five weeks. Course participants and instructors meet approximately twice a week for lectures, group discussions, computer-based exercises and/or seminars. The lectures/seminars cover topics not necessarily addressed in the required readings. Lectures should therefore be viewed as a complement to the mandatory literature. In order to enhance the learning outcomes, students need to be up to date on previously acquired skills in descriptive statistics and basic multivariate quantitative methods.
Course-PM
Systematic Reviews 2024 (218 Kb)
Schedule overview 2024 (162 Kb)
Assessment
This course consists of a group project and computer-based exercises. All course work is based on collaborative work. Participation in group discussions is therefore mandatory. The course is examined through a group assignment to updated a published systematic review, a group peer review assignment, and an individual summary statement of self-reflection on the learning process.
1. Updated Systematic Review
2. Peer Review
3. Individual Summary Statement
Examiner
Professor: Martin Hällsten
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Schedule
The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course. -
Course literature
Note that the course literature can be changed up to two months before the start of the course. -
Course reports
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Contact
Directors of studies, all levels
Questions about all master's courses/programmes at the Department of Sociology: master@sociology.su.se
