For this activity, you will conduct a systematic search based on one of your research questions and  share the results within the platform (process and databases employed, search terms, number of results).

After completing the systematic search, you will then select a research paper from the results. Based on the tools studied in the module, you will identify an appropriate tool to assess the paper and provide a rationale for using that particular tool. 

Step 1: Review

Review the learning resources for this module.

Step 2: Search

Assume you are doing a systematic review as part of your thesis:

• Select a research question of your preference and design search terms to conduct a systematic search. Make sure that the terms make good use of operators such as (), AND, OR, “”, and others.
• Select at least two databases of your preference. You can use open databases such as ERIC, PubMed, or Google Scholar.
• Insert your search terms, assess the results, and make adjustments to the terms until you feel satisfied with the number and quality of results obtained.

Step 3: Assess

From your results, select any research paper of your preference and get ready to make a critical appraisal.

• Choose a tool/checklist to assess the paper. Feel free to use the tools mentioned in the course readings or identify any other of your preference.
• Use your selected tool to assess the paper.

Step 4: Report

Prepare a 400-700 word report in which you include details under the following headings:

1. Systematic Search
1. Research Question
2. Search Process utilized (logical and clear)
3. Database(s) used
4. Search Terms used
5. Number of results obtained in each database
2. Critical Appraisal
1. Write a rationale for your tool selection and the main observations you have made about the paper. Make sure to include positive and negative aspects.