Question

compare and contrast a meta-synthesis with a meta-analysis: define each, describe how they are alike, and how they are different. include difference in worldview in your answer.

Answer 1

Meta synthesis is systematic review and integration of findings from qualitative studies. The objective is to describe the steps of a meta synthesis method adapted from Thematic synthesis and phenomenology to fit the particularities of psychiatric research.

Meta Analysis is a statistical analysis that combines the results of multiple scientific studies.

In social sciences synthesis of qualitative research findings is a better descriptor of the process for qualitative research and the term meta synthesis is used to distinguish this from quantitative meta analysis.Meta synthesis may also be used to integrate the findings from quantitative and qualitative studies.

There are some differences in both the studies as below.

- The intent of a meta analysis is to aggregate the findings of quantitative studies ana analyze this for a true effect.

The intent of meta synthesis is to synthesise the findings of qualitative studies and reinterpret the data.