Research Guides: Reviews: From Systematic to Narrative: Meta-Analysis

MA

A Meta Analysis is the quantitative analysis of two or more independent studies to integrate and synthesize the findings and describe the features of the studies that contribute to variation in their results. The following chart provides a brief comparison of the three major types of reviews.

	Systematic Review	Meta-analysis	IRR
Definition	“…research article that identifies relevant studies, appraises their quality and summarizes their results using scientific methodology.” (Khan, 2003)	“…a mathematical synthesis of the results….” (Greenhalgh, 1997)	“…a narrative account of information that is already currently available…” (Jesson & Lacey, 2006)
Method of Analysis	Data is abstracted in a standardized format. (Center for Outcomes Research and Education)	Statistical equations are used to synthesize data.	Narrative is used to discuss implications of findings in the current literature.
Searching Technique	Expert and reproducible search techniques applied to databases, print journals and indexes, current studies, experts, and grey literature.	Expert and reproducible search techniques applied to databases, print journals and indexes, current studies, experts, and grey literature.	Expert search techniques applied to applicable databases and search engines.

Meta-Analysis PDF

Meta-Analysis
A short explanation of what MA is, how to do a MA, pitfalls, strengths, weakness

The pdf document is a brief description of what meta-analysis is, how it is properly used, advantages and weakness, and the steps involved in performing this type of study.