School of Healthcare Science and Engineering (SHINE)
One-Day Hands-on Workshop on Conducting a Systematic Review
The One-Day Hands-on Workshop on Conducting a Systematic Review, jointly organized by the School of Healthcare Science and Engineering (SHINE) and the Centre for Biomaterials, Cellular and Molecular Theranostics (CBCMT), VIT Vellore, in collaboration with the ICMR-Cochrane Affiliate Centre, New Delhi, was successfully conducted on February 14, 2025.
This workshop provided a comprehensive and hands-on learning experience, equipping faculty, researchers, healthcare professionals, and students with the necessary methodologies and tools to conduct high-quality systematic reviews. Participants explored literature search strategies, data extraction techniques, quality assessment methods, and meta-analysis approaches, with a special focus on practical training using CADIMA software.
Key Learning Outcomes
- Enhanced Understanding of Systematic Reviews
- Participants gained a deep understanding of systematic reviews in evidence-based research and their role in decision-making.
- The workshop clarified how systematic reviews differ from traditional literature reviews.
- Ability to Develop a Research Protocol
- Attendees learned to draft a structured protocol for a Cochrane systematic review and understand key elements of a well-designed review.
- Improved Search Strategy Design
- Participants developed skills to create effective and comprehensive search strategies, selecting appropriate databases, keywords, and filters.
- Hands-on Experience with Systematic Review Tools
- Practical training was provided on Review Manager (RevMan) for managing systematic review data.
- Participants gained hands-on experience with CADIMA, a specialized software for systematic review writing and analysis.
- Competence in Data Extraction & Quality Assessment
- Attendees practiced systematic data extraction and assessing study quality and reliability.
- Application of Systematic Reviews in Research and Policy
- The workshop highlighted interdisciplinary applications of systematic reviews in healthcare, public health, engineering, and social sciences.
- Participants understood how systematic reviews contribute to policy-making and evidence-based decisions.
Key Highlights
- Expert-Led Sessions by distinguished trainers from the ICMR-Cochrane Affiliate Centre
- Hands-on Training in systematic review methodologies and CADIMA software
- Interdisciplinary Participation from VIT Vellore, Academic institutions and healthcare professionals
- Engaging Q&A Sessions, fostering knowledge exchange and professional growth
Participation Stats
- Offline Participants: 117
- Online Participants: 39
Workshop Feedback & Recommendations
The workshop received positive feedback, with an overall rating of 4.33/5. Participants appreciated the interactive sessions and structured content, but recommended extending the workshop duration for a more in-depth learning experience.
The event was a resounding success, reinforcing the importance of systematic reviews in evidence-based research and fostering a collaborative learning environment.
