What does 'meta-analysis' refer to in research methodology?

Meta-analysis is a powerful statistical technique utilized in research methodology to synthesize and combine findings from multiple studies addressing a similar research question. This approach allows researchers to quantify the overall effect or relationship observed across different studies, which helps in assessing the consistency of results and increases the overall sample size, thereby enhancing the statistical power.

By integrating data from various independent studies, meta-analysis provides a more comprehensive conclusion than any individual study could alone, allowing researchers to identify patterns, discrepancies, and potential reasons for variability in findings. It is particularly valuable in fields such as medicine and social sciences, where different studies may yield varying results due to differences in sample sizes, methodologies, or contexts.

In contrast, the other options highlight distinct types of research methodologies that do not involve combining data from multiple sources in the same way that meta-analysis does. For instance, a random sample pertains to data collection methods, a case study focuses on an in-depth examination of a single subject, and qualitative research emphasizes narrative data analysis, none of which incorporate the statistical integration characteristic of meta-analysis.