Evidence Synthesis Guide : Training Resources

The training modules below can be used by faculty engaged in educating investigators and clinicians interested in systematic review methods.
These presentations are available in PowerPoint format only. People using assistive technology may not be able to fully access information in these files.

Effectiveness and Comparative Effectiveness Reviews are systematic reviews of existing research examining the effectiveness, comparative effectiveness, and comparative harms of different healthcare interventions. We intend that these documents will serve as a resource for our EPCs as well as for other investigators interested in conducting Comparative Effectiveness Reviews.

Developed by world-leading experts, this course provides over 15 hours of self-directed learning on conducting a complete systematic review process for both new and experienced review authors. *Please note you will need to register for a Cochrane account while initially on the Mayo network.
1. Go to https://www.cochrane.org/learn/courses-and-resources/interactive-learning
2. Use the “Login” button in the upper right corner to access the login page. If you don’t already have an account, use the “Sign up Now” link on that page to create an account using your Mayo Clinic email address.
3. Once you have an account, login.
4. Return to https://www.cochrane.org/learn/courses-and-resources/interactive-learning
5. Click the “Subscribe” button below one of the modules.
6. A page listing pricing will appear. At the bottom of that page, select your country and check the box to indicate you accept the terms of service.
7. On the next page, you’ll see that a discount has been applied to the invoice, bringing your total cost to $0. Complete the form providing your name and address. You can use Mayo’s mailing address of 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
8. Click “complete” to complete your order.
9. Return to https://www.cochrane.org/learn/courses-and-resources/interactive-learning. You will now have access to the training modules.

The Cochrane Training website provides a range of learning opportunities for individuals interested in learning more about conducting, editing or reading a systematic review. Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned reviewer, you will find new opportunities to learn here about Cochrane systematic review methodology and processes.

Offered by Johns Hopkins University, this free 14-hour online course introduces learners to systematic reviews including how to formulate an answerable research question, define inclusion and exclusion criteria, search for the evidence, extract data, assess the risk of bias in clinical trials, and perform a meta-analysis.

This free course provides an overview of the steps involved in conducting a systematic (scientific) review of results of multiple quantitative studies. These steps include: problem formulation, searching for relevant literature, screening potentially eligible studies, coding and critically appraising studies, synthesizing results across studies using meta-analysis, reporting and disseminating results, and updating or re-analysis of data.

Academic Career Development / Department of Medicine (September 2017)