Difference between revisions of "Meta-analysis"
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| − | A '''meta-analysis''' is a statistical technique that combines the result of several studies in order to test a research hypothesis. | + | A '''meta-analysis''' is a statistical technique that combines the result of several studies in order to test a research hypothesis. Using the technique it may be possible to reach statistically significant conclusions, even where the results of the original underlying studies are themselves not statistically significant on their own. |
There are possible weaknesses to this approach: | There are possible weaknesses to this approach: | ||
Revision as of 11:12, August 7, 2007
A meta-analysis is a statistical technique that combines the result of several studies in order to test a research hypothesis. Using the technique it may be possible to reach statistically significant conclusions, even where the results of the original underlying studies are themselves not statistically significant on their own.
There are possible weaknesses to this approach:
- It is harder to control sources of bias since multiple studies are involved.
- A bias towards a predetermined outcome can influence the choice of studies to combine.