What is a systematic review?
A systematic review uses transparent procedures to identify, assess, and synthesize results of research on a particular topic. These procedures are explicit, so that others can replicate the review, and are defined in advance of the review, and include:
Clear inclusion/exclusion criteria specify the study designs, populations, interventions, and outcomes that will be covered in the review.
An explicit search strategy is developed and implemented to identify all published and unpublished studies that meet the inclusion criteria. The search strategy specifies keyword strings and sources (i.e., electronic databases, websites, experts, and journals) that will be included in the search.
Systematic coding and analysis of included studies’ methods, intervention and comparison conditions, sample characteristics, outcome measures, and results
Meta-analysis (when possible) to estimate pooled effect sizes (ES) and moderators of ES.
How are C2 systematic reviews different from other systematic reviews?
C2 reviews must include a systematic search for unpublished reports (to avoid publication bias).
C2 reviews are usually international in scope.
A protocol (proposal) for the review is developed in advanced and undergoes careful peer review by international experts in the substantive area, experts in systematic review methods, and a trial search coordinator.
Study inclusion decisions and coding decisions are accomplished by at least two reviewers who work independently and compare results.
C2 reviews undergo peer review and editorial review.
Completed C2 reviews are published in C2-RIPE and may be published elsewhere.
Guidelines for C2 systematic reviews can be found here.
The C2 Methods Group developed a set of policy briefs, which have been approved by the C2 Steering Group. These briefs provide useful information, guidance, and set standards concerning:
The Social Welfare Group