Term | Definition |
---|---|
Primary level studies/evaluations | Studies/evaluations in which researchers collect data (can be quantitative, qualitative or both) directly from their research participants. |
Systematic review | A systematic review attempts to identify, appraise and synthesize all the empirical evidence [from primary level studies] that meets pre-specified eligibility criteria to answer a specific research question. Researchers conducting systematic reviews use explicit, systematic methods that are selected with a view aimed at minimizing bias, to produce more reliable findings to inform decision making [5]. |
Integrated mixed methods synthesis of systematic review evidence (IMMS) | Combining empirical evidence described in various kinds of primary level studies buy using various kinds of quantitative and qualitative synthesis techniques within a single systematic review to answer complex review questions and study complex topics and problems [8]. |
Narrative Summary | Narrative Summary is the selection, chronicling and ordering of evidence to produce an account of the evidence, and can integrate quantitative and qualitative evidence through narrative juxtaposition [7]. |
Propositions | Propositions are ideas or statements derived from the initial data which have not necessarily been subjected to empirical research but are amenable to testing through primary research. |
Propositions supported by (qualitative) evidence | Propositions which can be supported at least in part by relevant evidence facilitate the IMMS approach and produce evidence that can be used for policy and practice. |
Propositions unsupported by evidence | Propositions that cannot be supported by relevant evidence do not facilitate an IMMS and identify gaps in the evidence for research recommendations |