Meta-Study of Qualitative Health Research
A Practical Guide to Meta-Analysis and Meta-Synthesis
- Barbara L. Paterson - Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, Canada, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, Canada, University of British Colombia, Canada
- Sally E. Thorne - University of British Columbia, Canada
- Connie Canam - University of British Colombia, Canada
- Carol Jillings - University of British Colombia, Canada
Methods in Nursing Research
This book provides step-by-step directions for how to conduct a meta-study, as well as recommendations for tools and standards for the application of this approach.
Meta-study entails an exhaustive analysis of the theory, method, and findings of research in a substantive area. These analytic processes form the foundation upon which a credible synthesis of new knowledge can be explored. Meta-study permits investigators to:
{ look beyond individual findings
{ critically interpret variations and contradictions in the body of available research
{ move toward the potential for knowledge synthesis
The authors of this timely volume:
{ differentiate between meta-analysis and meta-synthesis
{ write in a how-to style
{ illustrate each step with examples from their own meta-study projects in the substantive field of chronic illness
{ use their own experience with performing a meta-study to explain the process, including past mistakes and retrospective insight
Very good book but will only be relevant to a relatively small number of students
