Introduction to Evidence Synthesis, Systematic Reviews & Meta-analysis

This course is suitable for students without experience conducting systematic reviews.

This course covers the rationale for systematic reviews (SR), the different types of SR available, and how to read and critically appraise published SR.

The module contents are structured to cover the following topic areas:

• Evidence-based decision making
  
• Systematic reviews' basic structure
  
• How to critically appraise a systematic review
  
• Defining the scope of an SR (question)
  
• Search strategy
  
• The statistical basis of Meta-analysis
  
• Data Extraction Form and Data Extraction Process. How to extract data.
  
• Basis of software used to conduct systematic reviews (Reman and Covidence)
• Critically appraising a systematic review
  
• Basis of the GRADE framework - Summary of Finding Tables

The module is structured to understand the basics of knowledge synthesis approaches using students’ knowledge synthesis questions or decision-making questions.

This micro-credential is delivered through the UCD online learning platform (Brightspace) and will consist of lectures/discussions, critical appraisal, and discussions. 

A repository of resources will be available to support your learning, and as a UCD student, you will have full access to the library. 

This is a 5-credit micro-credential and involves approximately 100 hours of learner effort.

• Applicants must hold a degree in Health Sciences or another relevant discipline, including the social and natural sciences. 
• Applications will also be accepted from those with significant, relevant, practical experience or those with a graduate qualification relevant to knowledge synthesis. 
• Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proof of English proficiency as per UCD's minimum English language requirements.
• All applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Please note that entry requirements for your micro-credential should match the entry requirements of any programmes that the programme can be stacked into.

• Final assignment 50%
• Quizzes/Short Exercises 20%+10%+20%

Written feedback will be provided for the final assignment and class feedback will be provided for Quizzes/Short Exercises in each session.

Please note: Learners can avail of only one form of funding per application. 

Micro-Credentials Learner Fee Subsidy-Human Capital Initiative Pillar 3

The HCI Pillar 3 Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidy has been introduced to enable more learners to address critical skills gaps and engage with lifelong learning through micro-credentials. The HCI Pillar 3 Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidy is funded by Higher Education Authority (HEA) and the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. 

HCI Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidies are available on identified micro-credentials only from March 2024 until October 2025. Funded places are limited and course providers will administer the subsidy on a first come first serve basis.

Please see Eligibility Criteria for further information.    

If you have any questions about this micro-credential, or would like to speak to a UCD staff member, please contact (opens in a new window)microcredentials@ucd.ie.