Introducing QES Methods – the Basics: Thematic Synthesis & Framework Synthesis

1. Introducing QES Methods – the Basics: Thematic Synthesis & Framework Synthesis

3. Three QES Methods……..

5. 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

6. 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

7. Framework Synthesis

8. A Framework

9. 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 Methodology2011; 11: 29

10. 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.

12. A Framework

13. Best Fit Framework Synthesis

14. Thematic synthesis Framework synthesis

15. Why start with these methods? • Simplest methods of qualitative analysis • Many qualitative researchers already familiar with primary research counterparts • Do not preclude further analysis using more “advanced” methods e.g. thematic synthesis => meta-ethnography • Conservative choice that accommodates most degrees of richness/thickness of qualitative data

16. 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).