| Systematic mapping Methods Groups |
The Systematic Mapping Methods Group (SMMG) has been established to evaluate the use of systematic mapping methodology as part of the evidence-based framework for conservation and environmental management.
The two main aims of the group are to:
- Establish how systematic mapping can contribute to the environmental evidence-base.
- Establish how best to adapt systematic mapping methodology for use by environmental decision-makers.
Systematic Mapping Background:
In social sciences and education, systematic maps are used alongside systematic reviews to identify and categorise research literature.
Systematic mapping is a robust, repeatable and transparent scientific method used to identify, categorise and map available literature relevant to a topic.
Systematic mapping uses established searching protocols and has rigorous inclusion/exclusion criteria. Systematic mapping does not set out to provide an answer to a question, and may not always critically appraise the relevant research. It provides a database or ‘map’ showing where the evidence can be found. A systematic map can be a useful descriptive tool itself, or can inform decision making for pursuing systematic reviews on a subset of the literature; it also helps identify knowledge gaps to inform primary research.
For more information on the use of systematic mapping in other fields please follow the links at the bottom of the page.
Adapting systematic maps to environmental data
To date, the adaptation of systematic mapping methodology for environmental evidence is in the early stages. Three systematic maps have been or are soon to be published in draft format on the CEE website:
CEE10-010 What is the evidence that scarcity and shocks in freshwater resources can cause conflict instead of promoting collaboration in arid to subhumid hydroclimates?
CEE07-011 The effectiveness of integrated farm management, organic farming and agri-environment schemes as interventions for conserving biodiversity In Temperate Europe.
CEE 09-010 What are the effects of climate change on the environmental impacts of invasive species?
The approach used for each of these maps varies. The SMMG will consider the different approaches used by the systematic map authors in its review of the social science methodology.
Useful Links
For more information
- about CEE Methods Group, please email info@environmentalevidence.org
- if you are interested in contributing to the SMMG, please contact the chair, Nicola Randall nrandall@harper-adams.ac.uk
|
