ABSTRACT
An oft heard critique of qualitative research is the size of the sample despite the richness of the data far outweighing considerations of sample size. Meta-synthesis offers an approach which can connect those small islands of knowledge generated in qualitative studies to build a greater whole. In this chapter, we outline the history and origins of the meta-synthesis approach, and some of the debates and tensions in the meta-synthesis literature. More importantly, however, we aim to demystify an approach which has growing utility for occupational scientists and occupational therapists and yet remains largely unknown and under-utilized. We aim to leave you with the idea that a meta-synthesis approach is something that may be within your skills, is achievable, worthwhile, and is not just for research experts. However, like any qualitative approach, it requires considerable effort – so be prepared to embrace ambiguity and take the time to be creative while concepts and ideas take shape (Paterson et al., 2009).
