Table 8 Towards a research agenda
Component | Research priorities |
|---|---|
Sampling | Comparison of yields from exhaustive versus comprehensive sampling [32]. Informed matching of sampling to search methods to synthesis approaches |
Sources | Audits of relative yield [77] |
Structured questions | Exploration of techniques for automated document clustering to provide initial overview of available evidence across a broad range of topic areas [140, 141] |
Search procedures | More empirical testing of different approaches to searching [142, 143]. Exploration of iterative and theory-based approaches [41] |
Search strategies and filters | Ongoing rigorous development of methodological filters comparing parsimonious and exhaustive lists. Filters for different qualitative study types [34], process evaluations and mixed methods studies [21, 44]. Search strategies by discipline (e.g. social work), by application (e.g. patient satisfaction) or for theories |
Supplementary strategies | Audits and evaluations of relative yield [16] |
Standards | Development of consensual reporting standards for QES iterative search approaches; audits of reporting standards generally and for specific methods; standards to handle [39, 84] |