Introducing QES Methods – the Basics: Thematic Synthesis & Framework

Synthesis

Framework for systematic reviews of qualitative research (Garside, 2010)

Stage Typical activities

Developing research question Assemble team; Consult; Agree approach

Scoping exercise Identify relevant research; Refine methods

Identifying relevant literature Develop Inclusion/Exclusion criteria; Focused searches; Citation searches

Initial assessment of study reports Preliminary reading; Identify theories; Assess utility/relevance

Analysis and synthesis Reading & rereading study reports; Constant comparison; Assess validity

Preliminary synthesis Categorising; tabulating; mindmaps; Explore relationships

Full synthesis Thematic analysis; translation of findings; Theory development; rival explanations

Dissemination Target audiences; Limitations of review

Throughout Multiple viewpoints; Reflexivity; Audit trail; Ongoing consultation; revisit review purpose

Three QES Methods……..

Their Origins

• Thematic Synthesis from Thematic Analysis – assignment of themes to qualitative data (e.g. from interviews)

• Framework Synthesis from Framework Analysis – assignment of data from interviews etcetera to predefined domains of a framework

Thematic Synthesis

• Either performed using:– Line as Unit of Analysis – Line-by-Line

Coding – Eppi-Centre Method – Uses Qualitative Software–Data Extract as Unit of Analysis –

Assignment of Theme(s) – Uses Data Extraction themes for data extracts

Framework Synthesis

A Framework

How do you create a framework? Develop own framework or themes or concepts

for coding Oliver S et al: A multidimensional conceptual framework for analysing

public involvement in health services research. Health Expectations 2008, 11:72-84.

Brunton G, Oliver S, Oliver K, Lorenc T. A Synthesis of Research Addressing Children’s, Young People’s and Parents’ Views of Walking and Cycling for Transport London. London, EPPI-Centre, Social Science Research Unit, Institute of Education, University of London; 2006.

Identify or create a thematic framework or conceptual model Carroll C, Booth A, Cooper K. A worked example of “best-fit” framework

synthesis: A systematic review of views concerning the taking of potential chemopreventive agents, BMC Medical Research Methodology 2011; 11: 29

An existing conceptual framework

Conrad K, et al (1996). The worksite environment as a cue to smoking reduction. Research in Nursing & Health, 19 21-31.

A Framework

Best Fit Framework Synthesis

Framework synthesis

Thematic synthesis

Why start with these methods?

1. Simplest methods of qualitative analysis2. Many qualitative researchers already familiar

with primary research counterparts3. Do not preclude further analysis using more

“advanced” methods e.g. thematic synthesis => meta-ethnography

4. Conservative choice that accommodates most degrees of richness/thickness of qualitative data

Challenges

• Thematic Synthesis – Creating meaningful “labels” for the themes that emerge from the data. Establishing relationships between different themes

• Framework synthesis – Not “squeezing” data into existing categories. Requires pre-definition of what categories mean (especially if taken from published framework).