Conducting a meta-analysis involves several steps:
1. Formulating the Research Question: A well-defined research question is essential. It should be specific and focused. 2. Literature Search: Conducting a comprehensive literature search using databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library to identify relevant studies. 3. Selection of Studies: Applying inclusion and exclusion criteria to select studies that are methodologically sound and relevant to the research question. 4. Data Extraction: Extracting data from the selected studies, including sample size, effect sizes, and other relevant variables. 5. Statistical Analysis: Using statistical software to combine the data and calculate the overall effect size. Techniques such as fixed-effect or random-effects models are commonly used. 6. Interpretation of Results: Interpreting the findings in the context of the existing body of knowledge and making recommendations for practice or further research.
