Systematic mapping is a transparent technique for describing research literature on a broad topic. It allows us to take stock of the research available in any given area of social care, so that we can decide how to develop it. A map provides both a searchable database for researchers and policy makers, and a stand-alone piece of work describing the literature on that topic.
SCIE has been developing the process of systematic mapping in social care for four years, building on previous work by our advisors, the Evidence for Policy and Practice Information and Co-ordinating Centre (EPPI-Centre). SCIE is developing Systematic Mapping Guidance in order to share the methodology more widely: the guidance is under continuous development and will be updated.