VUSN: Introduction to Qualitative Metasynthesis

Have you ever wondered how to bring together insights from multiple qualitative studies to inform practice and policy? This course will guide you through the foundational concepts, rationale, and practical steps of qualitative metasynthesis, an advanced method for synthesizing qualitative research. You will learn to define qualitative metasynthesis, understand its importance in evidence-based practice, design a robust study, and differentiate appropriate studies for inclusion. Through a structured, supportive, and academically rigorous approach, you will gain the skills needed to conduct and appraise qualitative metasynthesis in health, social science, or nursing research.

By the end of this module, learners will be able to:

1. Define qualitative metasynthesis and explain its dual nature as both a product and a process.
2. Describe the rationale for conducting qualitative metasynthesis and its role in advancing evidence-based practice.
3. Identify key components and considerations in designing a qualitative metasynthesis study, including topic selection, population parameters, and time frame.
4. Differentiate qualitative research from other types of studies and understand inclusion/exclusion criteria for synthesis.