Introduction to meta analysis

The main course goal is to introduce Phd students to the genre of meta analysis, and show how to complete this on doctoral level. Throughout the course the Phd students will develop their understanding of the main elements of a meta analysis process. In addition, the course aims to develop the Phd students’ abilities and knowledge for designing and completing their own meta analysis in collaboration with supervisors, research group, etc.

After completing the course, the Phd students will have general knowledge about:

• Meta analysis as systematic review
• Relevant databases within health and social science research
• Developing a search protocol
• Search methods for database searches to locate and collect literature in a systematic and transparent way
• Methods for analysis, critically appraising and tools for organizing collected primary quantitative studies
• Ways of presenting findings in meta analysis

After completing the course, the Phd student will have specific knowledge about:

• How to develop an original problem statement for completing their own meta analysis (in collaboration with others)
• What types of meta analysis and research design will fit their own project
• Using different methods and techniques for analyzing and critically appraising primary studies
• How to measure effect sizes and analyze collected primary studies
• How to present findings from meta analysis in text and visually at a high academic level