What is a key feature of metasynthesis in qualitative research?

A key feature of metasynthesis in qualitative research is that it synthesizes critical masses of qualitative findings. This process involves aggregating various qualitative studies to extract overarching themes, patterns, and insights that deepen the understanding of a particular phenomenon. By combining insights from multiple studies, metasynthesis provides a richer interpretation of qualitative data, contributing to theory development or refining existing theoretical frameworks.

This approach contrasts with other methods in qualitative research, which might focus on individual studies or specific datasets rather than providing a comprehensive overview through synthesis. Engaging in metasynthesis allows researchers to capitalize on the diversity and depth of qualitative data, leading to new insights that may not be apparent in singular studies.