Systematic Reviews - a quick guide: Meta-analysis or not?

Meta-analysis is a research process used to systematically synthesise or merge the findings of single, independent studies, using statistical methods to calculate an overall or ‘absolute’ effect

(Shorten, A. and Shorten, B. (2013)  What is meta-analysis? Evidence Based Nursing 16 (1) 3-4)

For information on the process of meta-analysis, how to carry it out, and when it is or is not appropriate refer to chapter 9 of the Cochrane Handbook and the other resources below:

Cochrane Handbook Chapter 9: Analysing data and undertaking meta-analysis

Campbell Collaboration Introduction to meta-analysis

Metalight - (a freely available software application which is designed to support the teaching and learning of meta-analysis)