Defining three principles for credible evidence synthesis and reviews in health professions education

Abstract

As reviews become increasingly central to informing educational practice and guiding research in health professions education, the need for methodological clarity and quality has grown. This Commentary highlights three foundational principles – alignment, rigor, and transparency – that underpin high-quality reviews, regardless of type. We illustrate how these principles apply across commonly used review types, including systematic, scoping, realist, and narrative reviews. By aligning the research question with the appropriate review methodology, employing rigorous processes for evidence collection and synthesis, and maintaining transparency in methodological reporting, review teams can produce credible, transferable, and dependable findings. Embracing these principles not only enhances the trustworthiness of reviews but also supports stakeholders in applying synthesized knowledge effectively, ultimately advancing evidence-informed decision-making in health professions education.