Metasynthesis - Research Course in Advanced Qualitative Methods (DHV211)
The scientific contents of the course:
Meta synthesis is research on qualitative research and several methods have been developed to synthesize qualitative studies in various fields and disciplines. Meta-ethnography is one of the most used interpretative meta synthesis methods in development, whereas thematic synthesis, Sandelowski & Barrosso´s meta synthesis methods, and Framework synthesis represent alternative methods for qualitative meta synthesis. Meta synthesis research has the potential to benefit human and societal development and may contribute to the use of qualitative research findings in decision-making. Meta synthesis research studies may advance the critical philosophical, theoretical, and methodological knowledge and discussion that is relevant to the development of qualitative research.
Course description for study year 2025-2026. Please note that changes may occur.
Course code
DHV211
Version
1
Credits (ECTS)
5
Semester tution start
Spring, Autumn
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Spring
Language of instruction
English
Content
- Primary research appraisal for meta syntheses
- Meta synthesis: what, why, and how
- Meta-ethnography
- Thematic synthesis
- Sandelowski & Barroso´s meta synthesis methods
- Framework synthesis
Learning outcome
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
Knowledge:
- Demonstrate knowledge of the arguments for a meta synthesis research design
- Demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics of different types of meta synthesis approaches and methods
- Demonstrate understanding of validity in meta synthesis research designs
Skills:
- Be able to create aims and research questions in meta synthesis research designs
- Demonstrate skills to applicate meta synthesis designs in research, and conduct a synthesis with a focus on either interpretative meta-ethnography, thematic synthesis, Sandelowski & Barroso´s meta synthesis methods, or Framework synthesis
- Be able to critically assess and evaluate qualitative studies for inclusion in meta synthesis studies
General competence:
- Reflect on the use of meta synthesis in evidence-based practice
- Integrate a critical attitude to validity in meta synthesis research designs
- Reflect on ethical, gender and ethnic issues in meta synthesis studies
Required prerequisite knowledge
Exam
| Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper | 1/1 | Passed / Not Passed |
Each participant will write a background, method, and results section (approx. 3500 words) as a draft for a meta synthesis study related to the participants’ own research project using the literature and discussions from the course and identified and included studies from own working process. The paper should include a) background, suggestions and arguments for b) the aim and research question, c) the criteria for inclusion and exclusion, d) a report of the literature search, e) an appraisal and analysis of the findings of the included research reports, and e) a synthesis draft, and finally f) reflections on the process. The paper will be graded on a pass/fail grade.