https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1938-2654
![Sample our Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing & Allied Health journals, sign in here to start your FREE access for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5944/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Medicine-Dentistry-Nursing-Allied-Health.jpg"})
Abstract
Introduction
Online journal clubs (JCs) have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic with the resulting social distancing and popularity of online platforms. This systematic review aims to explore current evidence of their use/benefits for clinicians and compare their value to face-to-face (F2F) JCs.
Methods
PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched systematically, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Articles were included if they involved clinicians in medical/surgical populations, using an online JC assessing utility, experience and educational value. Quality assessment was undertaken using MERSQI.
Results
Fifteen studies were included with findings synthesised into five themes: critical appraisal skills, satisfaction/value, accessibility/environment, evidence-based practice, and preference of online JC. Studies revealed high satisfaction and equivocal or increased preference of online JCs compared to F2F due to ease of access, diverse participation, and less time/cost spent travelling. Online JCs were found to be educationally valuable, aiding development of critical appraisal skills, and promoting change in practice. Disadvantages included lack of discussion intensity, technical issues, and limited interaction on some platforms.
Discussion
Online JCs are educationally valuable with high satisfaction rates and distinct advantages/disadvantages to F2F JCs. More high-quality studies are required to elucidate the ideal format to further improve their educational value, utility, and adoption.
Disclosure statement
The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Bashaar Aweid
Bashaar Aweid, MBBS, MSc, BSc, MRCS, FHEA, Trauma and Orthopaedics Registrar at St. Mary’s Hospital, London.
Zakir Haider
Zakir Haider, MBBS, MSc, BSc, MRCS, FHEA, Trauma and Orthopaedics Registrar at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London.
Maya Wehbe
Maya Wehbe, MBBS, Internal Medicine Trainee at Hampshire Hospitals NHS Trust.
Alistair Hunter
Alistair Hunter, MA, MSc, FRCS (Tr&Orth), FHEA, Dip Hand Surg, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at University College London Hospital.