Meta-Study of Qualitative Health Research
A Practical Guide to Meta-Analysis and Meta-Synthesis
- Barbara L. Paterson - Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, Canada
- Sally E. Thorne
- Connie Canam
- Carol Jillings
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
"This book is a superior achievement from a group of masterful scholars. The book shows the theoretical, ethical, and political complexity of qualitative study, and yet offers an illuminating and useful guide to how it can be accomplished with distinction. I highly recommend it."
This textbook introduces meta-study and gives practical advice for how students can get started in such a research project. The language is plain and easy to follow. Although the authors focus on health research, the examples and applications can be easily applied for other fields.
This textbook should use as an introduction to the topic.
Level too complex for MSc nursing students - but would be useful for doctoral students
clear, helpful and complete. A book that guides you step by step and explains concepts in a clear but complete way. Really essential for conducting a meta-study
I have found this book to be easy to read in terms of the lay out and format. It focuses on important key issues related to qualitative health based research. It also explains key concepts and theories in a detailed way. Some helpful examples throughout the book but more importantly I feel this book is very useful for the health researcher. A great resource for the post graduate researcher and as a framework for teaching at a Bsc level and Phd level.
A thoughtful and detailed text that informs the reader well. Helpfully, the authors speak from their direct experience.
With the rise in use of meta-synthesis in qualitative research this book is timely. It offers a comprehensive overview of the area of meta-study, clearly describes procedure, and presents a clear understanding of this important method in the qualitative arena. Would recommend this for Post-Graduate Research Courses.
This book will be used as a supplementary text and for background reading for students undertaking specific types of reviews.
Meta-Study of Qualitative Health research presents a succinct guide which describes how to undertake a systematic approach to undertaking a literature search and analysing the results using interpretative research methods. This text is suitable for anyone undertaking a literature review within health and nursing research. The techniques and processes introduced to the reader can be used be applied to any qualitative research project which seeks to undertake a meta-study of the literature within a given area. This book is essential reading for undergraduate students new to the concept of meta-analysis and meta-synthesis.
Status: Essential reading
A must book for qualitative researchers
