Citation
(2001), "Meta-study of Qualitative Health Research: A Practical Guide to Meta-analysis and Meta-synthesis", International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, Vol. 14 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/ijhcqa.2001.06214fae.007
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2001, MCB UP Limited
Meta-study of Qualitative Health Research: A Practical Guide to Meta-analysis and Meta-synthesis
Meta-study of Qualitative Health Research: A Practical Guide to Meta-analysis and Meta-synthesis
B. Paterson, S.E. Thorne, C. Canam and C. JillingsSage Publications2001ISBN: 0 76192 414 0 (hbk); 0 76192 415 9 (pbk)
Meta-study is an exciting new opportunity for the analysis and synthesis of qualitative research findings. Over the last two decades, a wide range of methods and approaches originating from the social and health sciences have provided a wealth of new knowledge sources from which to develop theory.
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; and move toward the potential for knowledge synthesis.
The authors of this new text differentiate between meta-analysis and meta-synthesis and use their own experience with performing a meta-study to explain the process, including past mistakes and retrospective insight. They illustrate each step with examples from their own meta-study projects in the substantive field of chronic illness