Systematic Reviews & Evidence Synthesis

The Evidence Synthesis Librarian at CSU Libraries is able to offer consultations and instruction sessions on systematic reviews and evidence synthesis methods, tools, search strategies, and more. Please reach out!

• Request a consultation on methods and process
• Request a search strategy review
• Request a classroom, lab group, or other small group training
• Attend a scheduled workshop

Acknowledgement

The CSU Libraries requests that significant methodological and search support offered by a CSU librarian be credited as a named acknowledgment in the final publication. Co-authorship may be discussed for significant project contributions. In such cases, the librarian should have the opportunity to review and edit the appropriate sections of a manuscript before submission.

Consultations on Methods & Resources

Book a session with the Evidence Synthesis Librarian for one-on-one or small group consultation on the methods, process and tools for a systematic review or other evidence synthesis project.

Book a Consultation

• An initial session is recommended as early as possible in the project conception and planning phase
• Up to five (5) hours total of consultation time may be requested for a specific evidence synthesis project
  • Search strategy review consultations (below) are not counted towards this total
• Additional sessions may be requested if:
  • The project includes at least one CSU affiliated faculty member or staff researcher, AND
  • A project protocol is completed

Search Strategy Review

Complete the Search Strategy Review Request Form for expert review of your draft search design. You may make this request during your initial search design for the protocol and when you translate the search strategy for other databases. If you do not yet have the components below prepared, request a consultation on methods and resources for further assistance.

Request a Search Strategy Review

• At the time the request is made you must provide:
  • The research question/aim
  • Inclusion/exclusion criteria
  • A completed draft of the search strategy including all search terms linked with Boolean operators and parenthesis
  • The list of databases in which the search will be conducted
  • Between 2 - 6 citations for articles that you expect would make it through your screening process and be included in the final analysis
• Requests must be made at least one (1) week in advance of response need or meeting time
• Your request may be placed on a waitlist as librarian availability necessitates

The Evidence Synthesis Librarian at CSU Libraries is able to offer instruction sessions on systematic reviews and evidence synthesis methods, tools, and appraisal. Please reach out!

Classroom Instruction Requests

Request Classroom Instruction

• Feel free to complete this form, even if you are not yet sure of your needs or timing
• Please make requests at least two weeks in advance - asynchronous support may take longer to arrange

Lab Team, Department, or Other Small Group Trainings

Request Group Training

• Estimated attendance for the group should be at least 5+
• Please make requests at least two weeks in advance
• Small group training sessions can be done for your lab or research team, department, committee, or any other small group affiliated with CSU

Scheduled Library Workshops

Scheduled workshops relevant to evidence synthesis are offered periodocally through CSU Libraries and CSU Writes. Check our calendar of evens for upcoming options.