SPIDER framework is used for qualitative and mixed methods reviews. More specific than PICo (Population, Phenomenon of Interest, Context), it includes design and research type as elements, making it more precise for searching and screening. It’s often preferred for reviews that include both qualitative and quantitative components.
Example question: What are the experiences of informal caregivers supporting family members with dementia at home?
Criteria | Definitions | Inclusion example | Exclusion example |
Sample | Group(s) of participants or units from which data is collected | e.g. Adult family members or friends providing informal care to someone with dementia | e.g. Paid professional caregivers or care home staff |
Phenomenon of Interest | Experience, behavior, process, or issue being explored in the study | e.g. Lived experience of providing informal care to a family member with dementia | e.g. Clinical outcomes or symptom progression in the person with dementia |
Design | Approach used to collect and analyze data | e.g. Semi-structured interviews or focus groups | e.g. Large-scale randomized survey experiment |
Evaluation | Method, tool, or measure used to assess or capture the phenomenon | e.g. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts | e.g. A proprietary tool with no published validation |
Research type | Research methodology used in the study | e.g. Qualitative study | e.g. Purely quantitative experimental study |
Other | Any additional information that affects a study's eligibility for your review or is helpful to consider during screening | e.g. Studies using qualitative data collection methods | e.g. Studies focused on the person with dementia rather than the caregiver |