Quality assessment is a key step in evidence synthesis but often misunderstood. The multitude of tools and concepts can cause confusion in selecting the right tool for the included study types.
This session covers the decision logic. The speakers start with the distinction that causes most of the confusion: risk of bias tools help to judge whether you can trust a single study's result, while quality appraisal tools and reporting checklists are asking something else. From there, they outline what to use and when. They cover tools across the spectrum from randomised trials to qualitative evidence and further to review appraisal tools. Tools originating in health and environmental sectors are covered. They also cover why summary scores cause problems,what to do when one review contains several study designs, and why quality appraisal matters for the review findings.
This webinar is ideal for novice to experienced researchers looking to strengthen the credibility and consistency of their appraisal process.
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Distinguish between risk of bias, critical appraisal, and reporting checklists, and understand the different purposes they serve in evidence synthesis.
- Select an appropriate critical appraisal or risk of bias tool based on the study design and type of evidence being assessed.
If you can't attend live, register anyway, and you will receive a recording within 48 hours of the session.
Speakers
- Dr. Sini Savilaakso, Associate Professor - Environmental Scientist
- Ghida Iskandarani, Consultant Systematic Reviewer
- Razia Aliani, Senior Consultant Systematic Reviewer
