Purpose of a Systematic Review
A systematic review is a very thorough and comprehensive analysis of all relevant studies on a very specialized topic. A systematic review is a unique analysis on existing literature surrounding a focused research question using very strict criteria for what studies are included and excluded from the analysis. As we write a systematic review, we are:
- Demonstrating your knowledge of your very specialized research topic
- Using a very specific methodology to identify all relevant studies on a specific topic
- Selecting specific studies for incorporation based on inclusion/exclusion criteria
- Using an extremely transparent framework so anyone can replicate and reproduce your findings
- Potentially incorporating statistical meta-analysis to demonstrate and reinforce our conclusions.
Systematic reviews often:
- Take months to years to complete to ensure a thorough evaluation of the subject
- Involve more than one author to eliminate and contradict bias
Find A Resource
Handbook of research methods in social work by Location: Available OnlinePublication Date: 2025It assesses effective methods and methodologies in practice, examining quantitative, mixed methods, documentary and active participatory approaches.
Social science education : developing social scientific perspective by Location: Available OnlinePublication Date: 2025This book delves into the interrelationships between society, social relationships, education and learning.
The Illustrated Guide to Social Science Research by Location: Available OnlinePublication Date: 2025This accessible and engaging textbook helps students to get to grips with key concepts, issues, and practices in social science research through the use of fun and informative illustrations and examples.
Literature Reviews In Social Work by Location: Available OnlinePublication Date: 2014This book will provide you with a clear and accessible guide to the process of conducting a literature review, giving you the skills, confidence and knowledge required to produce your own successful review.
Principles and Practice of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis by Location: Available OnlinePublication Date: 2021Covers literature search, assessing heterogeneity, bias assessment, publication bias, and data extraction.
