The annual Evidence Synthesis Ireland (ESI) Summer School, Introduction to Evidence Synthesis: Systematic Reviews and Beyond, took place at the University of Galway, attracting more than 85 attendees from across Ireland and internationally.
Day 1: Foundations of Evidence Synthesis
The opening day introduced participants to the core principles of evidence synthesis. Prof. Declan Devane provided an overview of the different types of evidence synthesis and the key stages involved in the review process. Dr Linda Biesty followed with a session on developing focused and answerable research questions. Dr David Moher joined remotely to discuss systematic review protocols and registration, while Kavita Kothari led a hands-on workshop on developing effective search strategies. The day concluded with Dr KM Saif Ur Rahman’s session on study selection and screening.
Day 2: Data Management and Quantitative Synthesis
The second day focused on data management and quantitative methods. Dr Paula Byrne facilitated a practical session on data extraction, and Dr KM Saif Ur Rahman guided participants through risk of bias assessment. Prof. Declan Devane concluded the day with an engaging session on meta-analysis, covering both fundamental concepts and advanced quantitative methods.
Day 3: Synthesis Methods and Knowledge Translation
The final day explored a range of synthesis methods and approaches to knowledge translation. Dr Sinéad Duggan introduced participants to the GRADE approach, including GRADE domains, the creation and interpretation of Summary of Findings tables, and the use of GRADEpro software. Dr Linda Biesty then presented on qualitative evidence synthesis and the GRADE-CERQual approach. Joining remotely, Prof. James Thomas discussed methods for integrating quantitative and qualitative evidence and highlighted the growing role of automation tools in evidence synthesis. The programme concluded with a co-presentation by Dr Nikita Burke and Maureen Smith, ESI PPI Advisor, on the importance of patient and public involvement (PPI) in evidence syntheses.
The Summer School closed with thanks from the ESI team to all speakers and attendees for contributing to three days of interactive learning, collaboration, and discussion on evidence synthesis.
