Meta-Analysis

Meta-analysis

A systematic review method that involves identifying a specific aim and searching for research studies that have addressed similar aims/hypotheses.

Database search

The process of looking through various databases to find relevant research studies for a meta-analysis.

Inclusion/exclusion criteria

Criteria used to decide which studies are to be included or excluded in a meta-analysis.

Strengths of meta-analysis

Increases the validity of conclusions by basing them on a wider range of studies.

Weaknesses of meta-analysis

Variability in research designs among studies can make them not truly comparable in a meta-analysis.