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Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Research

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Handbook of Research Methods in Health Social Sciences

Abstract

A meta-synthesis of qualitative health research is a structured approach to analyzing primary data across the findings sections of published peer-reviewed papers reporting qualitative research. A meta-synthesis of qualitative research provides evidence for health care and service decision-making to inform improvements in both policy and practice. This chapter will provide an outline of the purpose of the meta-synthesis of qualitative health research, a historical overview, and insights into the value of knowledge generated from this approach. Reflective activities and references to examples from the literature will enable readers to:

  • Summarize methodological approaches that can be applied to the analysis of qualitative research.

  • Define the scope of and review question for a meta-synthesis of qualitative research.

  • Undertake a systematic literature search using standard tools and frameworks.

  • Examine critical appraisal tools for assessing the quality of research papers.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Australian Centre for Public and Population Health Research, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia

    Angela J. Dawson

Authors
  1. Angela J. Dawson
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Correspondence to Angela J. Dawson .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Health, Locked Bag 1797, CA.02.35, Western Sydney Univ, School of Science & Health, Locked Bag 1797, CA.02.35, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia

    Pranee Liamputtong

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Dawson, A.J. (2018). Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Research. In: Liamputtong, P. (eds) Handbook of Research Methods in Health Social Sciences . Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-2779-6_112-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-2779-6_112-1

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  • Print ISBN: 978-981-10-2779-6

  • Online ISBN: 978-981-10-2779-6

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