A2 Review article, Literature review, Systematic review
Meta-Study (2022)
Ronkainen, N., Wiltshire, G., & Willis, M. (2022). Meta-Study. International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 15(1), 226-241. https://doi.org/10.1080/1750984x.2021.1931941
JYU authors or editors
Publication details
All authors or editors: Ronkainen, Noora; Wiltshire, Gareth; Willis, Martin
Journal or series: International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology
ISSN: 1750-984X
eISSN: 1750-9858
Publication year: 2022
Publication date: 27/05/2021
Volume: 15
Issue number: 1
Pages range: 226-241
Publisher: Routledge
Publication country: United Kingdom
Publication language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/1750984x.2021.1931941
Publication open access: Openly available
Publication channel open access: Partially open access channel
Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/76136
Abstract
Meta-study is a method for analysing the content and the process of knowledge production in a body of qualitative research. Conducting a meta-study involves four steps: (1) meta-data-analysis which involves the study of empirical findings; (2) meta-method which examines the epistemological soundness and rigour of methods; (3) meta-theory which examines the structures, assumptions, and principles underpinning the primary research studies; and (4) meta-synthesis which brings the three steps together and considers the plausibility of existing accounts, what has been neglected, and what new avenues have been opened for advancing knowledge. Qualitative researchers in sport and exercise psychology (SEP) have recently started using meta-study to examine bodies of qualitative research in various areas including positive youth development, junior-to-senior transition, athletic identity and mental toughness development. Our review shows that meta-study has been a useful method for demonstrating how methodological developments have influenced how qualitative researchers apply methods and conceptualise the phenomena of interest. However, there have been diverse applications of meta-study and, in the absence of recent updates on the method, meta-study is in danger of remaining underdeveloped or becoming outdated. Based on the review, we outline guidelines for SEP scholars to employ meta-study rigorously.
Keywords: sport psychology; methodology; research methods; qualitative research; meta-analysis; synthesis; validity; theory of knowledge
Free keywords: epistemology; methodology; validity; synthesis; qualitative research
Contributing organizations
Ministry reporting: Yes
VIRTA submission year: 2022
JUFO rating: 2