Meta-analysis is a statistical method that combines the results from multiple research studies in an effort to synthesize their findings. The theory behind meta-analysis is that there is a common “truth” behind a collection of similar research studies that has been measured with error in each individual study. Using appropriate statistical methods, we can derive a better estimate of this truth by combining the results of the studies. Benefits of meta-analysis include the potential for increased power, improved precision, and the ability to answer questions not addressed by the individual studies. Meta-analysis has become a very popular and useful tool in many fields, including the social sciences.
This three-hour workshop will cover the theory and statistical methods behind meta-analysis and provide participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to confidently understand and interpret the result of a meta-analysis, and consider applying these methods to their own research. Topics will include: data extraction, effects sizes, synthesized estimates, random and fixed effects model, heterogeneity, and visualization and presentation of results. The workshop will include a hands-on component using the R statistical software package. Participants should install the most recent versions of both R and RStudio on their computers prior to the workshop. To download and install R, visit https://cran.r-project.org/ and to download and install RStudio, visit https://www.rstudio.com. The meta and metafor packages will be used to perform meta-analysis.
The workshop is appropriate for faculty, research staff, graduate students, and advanced undergraduate students. No previous experience with meta-analysis is required.
Instructors: The Cornell Statistical Consulting Unit (CSCU)
Date: October 14, 2022
Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm Arizona Time
Location: Zoom, link will be sent out a few days before workshop
Fee: $50