Scoping studies: advancing the methodology
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Scoping studies are an increasingly popular approach to reviewing health research evidence. In 2005, Arksey and O'Malley published the first methodological framework for conducting scoping studies. While this framework provides an excellent foundation for scoping study methodology, further clarifying and enhancing this framework will help support the consistency with which authors undertake and report scoping studies and may encourage researchers and clinicians to engage in this process. DISCUSSION: We build upon our experiences conducting three scoping studies using the Arksey and O'Malley methodology to propose recommendations that clarify and enhance each stage of the framework. Recommendations include: clarifying and linking the purpose and research question (stage one); balancing feasibility with breadth and comprehensiveness of the scoping process (stage two); using an iterative team approach to selecting studies (stage three) and extracting data (stage four); incorporating a numerical summary and qualitative thematic analysis, reporting results, and considering the implications of study findings to policy, practice, or research (stage five); and incorporating consultation with stakeholders as a required knowledge translation component of scoping study methodology (stage six). Lastly, we propose additional considerations for scoping study methodology in order to support the advancement, application and relevance of scoping studies in health research. SUMMARY: Specific recommendations to clarify and enhance this methodology are outlined for each stage of the Arksey and O'Malley framework. Continued debate and development about scoping study methodology will help to maximize the usefulness and rigor of scoping study findings within healthcare research and practice.
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The record
- Venue
- Implementation Science
- Topic
- Health Policy Implementation Science
- Field
- Health Professions
- Canadian institutions
- University of TorontoMcMaster University
- Funders
- Canadian Institutes of Health ResearchCanadian Occupational Therapy FoundationCanadian Child Health Clinician Scientist ProgramMcMaster University
- Keywords
- Health services researchKnowledge translationRigourThematic analysisProcess (computing)Management scienceHealth informaticsProcess managementRelevance (law)Health careQualitative researchMedicineHealth administrationKnowledge managementComputer sciencePublic healthNursingEngineeringPolitical scienceSociology
- Has abstract in OpenAlex
- yes