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2 years ago in Academic Research By Madhu B

Was a protocol developed a priori‑ Is it registered or available (e.g., in an open registry)?

The PRISMA-ScR checklist mentions a protocol. In my field, scoping reviews are newer, and some colleagues question if a rigid protocol is necessary for an exploratory method. I need to understand its true purpose is it to prevent bias, ensure transparency, or something else and the best way to make it available.

 

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By Trisha Answered 1 year ago

This is a common misconception. Even exploratory reviews need a protocol to guard against procedural drift where your methods subtly change to fit the literature you find, introducing bias. I would recommend developing your protocol a priori and registering it on Open Science Framework or PROSPERO. I have seen this transform a review from a subjective "fishing expedition" into a credible, auditable piece of scholarship. It’s not about rigidity, but about documenting your initial intent to ensure transparency.

 

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