The Role of Scoping Reviews in Identifying Key Concepts and Frameworks in Research

Introduction

One of the most valuable contributions a scoping review can make is helping researchers identify key concepts, definitions, and frameworks that shape a field of study.

Unlike systematic reviews, which focus on summarizing and synthesizing evidence to answer a narrowly defined question, scoping reviews have the flexibility to explore how concepts are defined and applied across diverse studies.

This makes them an essential tool in theory building, conceptual clarity, and methodological innovation.

1. Why Identifying Key Concepts Matters

In many research areas:

• The same term may be defined differently by various authors.

• Conceptual frameworks may evolve over time.

• Some concepts may be underdeveloped or inconsistently applied.

Example: In public health research, the term health literacy has multiple definitions and measurement tools. A scoping review can map these differences and suggest a unified approach.

2. How Scoping Reviews Map Concepts

Best Practices:

1. Catalog Definitions – Record every definition used in the included studies.

2. Identify Frameworks – Note any models or theories that underpin the research.

3. Analyze Evolution – Observe how definitions and frameworks change over time.

4. Highlight Gaps – Point out missing or incomplete conceptual foundations.

3. Uncovering Implicit Frameworks

Not all studies explicitly reference a theoretical model, but:

• Look for repeated patterns in methodology or interpretation.

• Identify underlying assumptions that guide study design.

• Group studies with similar implicit frameworks for clearer analysis.

4. Supporting Theory Development

By identifying:

• Common conceptual building blocks

• Areas of disagreement

• Unexplored theoretical linkages

Scoping reviews help create integrated conceptual models that can guide future empirical research.

5. Using Visual Mapping Tools

To clearly present conceptual findings:

• Concept maps – Show how key terms relate to each other.

• Framework diagrams – Illustrate dominant theoretical models.

• Timeline visuals – Display the evolution of concepts over time.

6. From Concepts to Research Priorities

Identifying key concepts doesn’t just help clarify definitions — it also:

• Reveals conceptual blind spots in the literature.

• Suggests new frameworks for emerging fields.

• Helps standardize measurement and methodology.

7. Ensuring Rigor in Concept Identification

To maintain credibility:

• Use transparent coding for thematic and conceptual data.

• Report how definitions were compared and categorized.

• Provide appendices with raw conceptual mapping data.

Conclusion

Scoping reviews play a critical role in identifying and clarifying key concepts and frameworks. By systematically mapping definitions, theoretical underpinnings, and conceptual gaps, they lay the groundwork for stronger, more coherent future research.

In rapidly evolving fields, this conceptual clarity can accelerate innovation and improve the quality of evidence.

Meta Title: The Role of Scoping Reviews in Identifying Key Concepts and Frameworks in Research
Meta Description: Discover how scoping reviews map key concepts, clarify definitions, and identify theoretical frameworks that shape research fields.