Table 1 The original scoping review framework proposed by Arksey and O’Malley [24, 25]

1.

Identifying the research question

• As a guide to build a research strategy.

• Should be wide enough to generate a breadth of coverage.

2.

Identifying relevant studies

• Via different sources: electronic databases, reference lists, hand-searching of key journals, existing networks, relevant organizations, and conferences.

• Make decision about the coverage of the review in terms of time span and language (consider time and budget constraints).

3.

Study selection

• The criteria for the inclusion/exclusion criteria are device post hoc based on increasing familiarity with the subject matter through reading the studies.

• Use an iterative team approach to select the studies and extract the data.

4.

Charting the data

• The work involves “charting” key items of the information obtained from the primary research reports being reviewed.

• A data-charting form is developed and used to extract data from each study.

5.

Collating, summarizing, and reporting the results

• An analytic framework or thematic construction is used to provide an overview of the breadth of the literature but not a synthesis.

• A numerical analysis of the extent and nature of the studies using tables and charts is presented. A thematic analysis is then presented.

• Clarity and consistency are required when reporting results.

6.

Consultation exercise (optional)

• Provides opportunities for consumer and stakeholder involvement to suggest additional references and provide insights beyond those in the literature.