Free User Guide: An Introduction to Qualitative Meta-Synthesis
Providing step-by-step guidance on qualitative meta-synthesis methods, from ideation to publication
The Institute for Meta-Synthesis (IMS) was established in 2020 with the goal of providing researchers with diverse on-ramps for building knowledge and skills in qualitative meta-synthesis methods. Between 2020 and 2024, IMS taught over 2,200 researchers and provided online materials that were downloaded over 7,000 times. This free, downloadable user guide (221 pages) is a culmination of these lessons and materials.
Topics include:
- Developing an effective synthesis question
- Searching for literature using forward and backward snowballing
- Developing and applying critical appraisal selection criteria
- Creating analytical memos
- Coding and conducting thematic analysis
- Writing synthesis manuscripts and grant proposals
- and more!