ABSTRACT
A meta-synthesis of qualitative evidence is comparable to a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials; both methods involve the systematic review of literature and secondary analysis of original data. The meta-synthesis of qualitative research has grown in popularity within health and social sciences over the past 25 years. Despite the growth of primary qualitative research within sport and exercise sciences, the use of meta-synthesis methods is few and far between. The field of sport and exercise sciences has yet to embrace the possibilities to conceptually advance knowledge and influence policy and practice through the systematic review and synthesis of qualitative research evidence. In this chapter, first we explore what a meta-synthesis is and why a meta-synthesis might be conducted. We then provide some examples of metasyntheses within sport and exercise sciences to illustrate their potential use in this field. Next, to understand how to conduct a meta-synthesis, we outline one type of meta-synthesis – thematic synthesis – and provide working examples and critical reflections of the decisions made at each stage in the process.
