On Friday, May 26, renowned researcher and basic science faculty of Avalon University School of Medicine, Dr. Jonathan Lambo, presented the first part of a highly anticipated workshop series on systematic reviews. The session, held in the conference room from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm, attracted a diverse audience eager to delve into the world of evidence-based research. In this blog post, we will explore the key highlights of this introductory workshop and shed light on the upcoming practical sessions.

Unveiling the World of Systematic Reviews:

Dr. Lambo’s workshop aimed to demystify the process of conducting systematic reviews, which are considered the gold standard in evidence-based research. Systematic reviews involve meticulously analyzing existing literature to answer specific research questions and provide a comprehensive synthesis of the available evidence. These reviews serve as powerful tools for guiding decision-making processes and informing policy and practice in various fields.

Part 1: Introduction:

During the first part of the workshop, Dr. Lambo masterfully introduced the fundamental concepts and principles of systematic reviews. Attendees gained a clear understanding of the importance of formulating precise review questions and developing robust search strategies. Dr. Lambo emphasized the need for carefully selecting and assessing relevant studies, ensuring transparency and reproducibility throughout the review process.

The session also highlighted the critical role of defining eligibility criteria and extracting data from selected studies. Attendees learned about various data analysis techniques and the significance of synthesizing findings using appropriate statistical methods. Dr. Lambo emphasized the importance of critically evaluating the quality and risk of bias in included studies to ensure the reliability of the review’s conclusions.

Part 2: Practical Sessions:

Looking forward to the second workshop on Friday, June 2, participants were informed about the one-week interval between the sessions. This interval provides ample time for attendees to refine their review questions and develop search strategies with relevant search terms. Dr. Lambo will guide participants in the practical application of systematic review methodologies during the upcoming session, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in conducting reviews.

Dr. Jonathan Lambo’s introductory workshop on systematic reviews proved to be an enlightening experience for all attendees. Dr. Lambo empowered researchers, practitioners, and decision-makers to confidently embark on evidence-based journeys by providing a comprehensive overview of the systematic review process.

As we eagerly await the second part of the workshop on Friday, June 2, participants can start envisioning the practical aspects of conducting systematic reviews. Armed with a solid foundation from the introductory session, attendees will soon dive into the realm of formulating review questions, developing search strategies, and ultimately synthesizing the evidence to generate valuable insights.

The workshop series led by Dr. Lambo is not just an opportunity to learn about systematic reviews but also a chance to join a community of individuals passionate about evidence-based research. Through these workshops, participants will unlock the power of systematic reviews and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and practice in their respective fields.