Academic leagues in health: a systematic review and proposed checklist to guide new studies

Abstract

Introduction:

Academic Leagues (ALs) are not-for-profit groups commonly organized by graduate students and advisors in Brazilian universities, that follow the principles of the academic triad (teaching, research, and service). Historically found in medical schools, they have also been widespread in several health courses. However, knowledge about ALs is limited.

Objectives:

To conduct a systematic review on academic health leagues in Brazil, analyze the demographic profile and performance of ALs in Brazil, proposing concomitantly a checklist guide for the writing of experience reports on the subject.

Methods:

The study consists of a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines and using the BVS Health and Medline databases. Details of ALs, their historical evolution, demographic profile, and bibliometric evaluation of the obtained data were described. In addition, a checklist was developed to guide new reports on AL experiences.

Results:

A total of 2,064 studies were selected, with 74 articles included in 20 years of analysis (2003-2022). The profile of health ALs has changed over the years, reaching the current model based on the triad of activities. However, ALs are heterogeneous in Brazil, concentrated in some regions, especially in the Southeast. Moreover, the heterogeneity of the studies, absence of a central scientific journal, and lack of quantitative uni/multicentric studies that assess the impact of ALs on student education were observed.

Conclusion:

New studies within this theme are still necessary to clarify the activities developed and their academic and social impacts.

Keywords:
Education, Medical; Curriculum; Teaching; Academic league