Protocol for an extended scoping review on the use of virtual nominal group technique in research

PLoS One. 2023 Jan 20;18(1):e0280764. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280764. eCollection 2023.

Abstract

Introduction: Consensus group methods such as the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) and Delphi method are commonly used in research to elicit and synthesize expert opinions when evidence is lacking. Traditionally, the NGT involves a face-to-face interaction. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many in-person meetings have moved to online settings. It is unclear to what extent the NGT has been undertaken in virtual settings. The overarching aim of this scoping review is to explore the use of the virtual NGT in research. Our specific objectives are to answer the following questions: To what extent has the NGT been used virtually? What modifications were made to accommodate this online format? What advantages and disadvantages were noted by authors in comparison with the face-to-face mode of the technique?

Materials and methods: This scoping review will follow the steps outlined by Arksey and O'Malley and the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Several pilot searches were completed to refine inclusion and exclusion criteria. Media Synchronicity Theory will provide a conceptual framework to inform the research, including data extraction and summarizing results. As an additional extension to the literature review, online interviews with corresponding authors will be conducted to gather further information.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19* / epidemiology
  • Consensus
  • Humans
  • Pandemics*
  • Research Design
  • Review Literature as Topic

Grants and funding

This project is being funded by a Medical Education Research Grant, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa. The funders will not have any role in the study design, data collection, and analysis, decision to publish or preparation of the manuscript.