Cochrane Learning: AI & Evidence, Patient-Oriented Research

[Chris Johnston]

Cochrane Learning Live, a program of online research-focused learning events open to everyone, is launching a new webinar series for 2025:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods in evidence synthesis:

• 16 Jan 2025: (How) can AI-based automation tools assist with systematic searching?

• 13 Feb 2025: Could large language models (LLMs)/AI-based tools assist the screening process?

• 12 Mar 2025: Opportunities and challenges for data extraction with a large language model

• 09 Apr 2025: (How well) can LLMs/AI-based tools assist in Risk of Bias Assessment?

• 07 May 2025: How effectively do LLMs/AI-based tools assist in writing/summarizing evidence syntheses?

• 03 Jun 2025: Recommendations and guidance on responsible AI in evidence synthesis

To register for any/all sessions in the series: https://training.cochrane.org/AI-in-evidence-synthesis-webinars

They're also hosting an ongoing series for patient oriented research:
International Patient & Public Involvement Network (IPPIN): Learning Live webinar series

• 26 Nov 2024: Storytelling for impact: Creating a storytelling program for patient partners in research

• 04 Dec 2024: Engaging indigenous patient partners in patient-oriented research in Canada

To register and access recordings of previous IPPIN sessions: https://training.cochrane.org/international-ppi-network-learning-live-webinar-series

For the full range of Cochrane Training online learning, events, guides and handbooks:
https://training.cochrane.org/

[Chris Johnston]

This morning’s session on using AI to support systematic reviews was illuminating. The presenter highlighted progress in just the past year shows significant improvement in both sensitivity and specificity of results achieved by Large Language Models in article searches and screening.

While not yet approaching the quality of results achieved by research librarians, AI already outperforms non-experts including Phd students, novice and early career researchers and clinicians.

I find it encouraging that this is getting close to putting the tools for systematic reviews in the hands of patients, which could make patient-led research easier to initiate.

The recording will be available soon at the series link, and the upcoming sessions are still available to register.