What This Document Is
This is a comprehensive syllabus for EVAL 6970: Meta-Analysis, a graduate-level course offered at Western Michigan University within the Research on Evaluation program. It outlines the structure, expectations, and learning objectives for a semester-long exploration of research synthesis techniques. The syllabus details a course focused on advanced analytical methods used to combine and interpret findings from multiple studies. It’s designed for students seeking a deep understanding of how to systematically review and quantitatively analyze research literature.
Why This Document Matters
This syllabus is essential for prospective students considering enrollment in EVAL 6970. Current students will rely on it throughout the semester as a central reference for course policies, grading criteria, and scheduling information. Researchers and evaluators interested in understanding the components of a rigorous meta-analysis course will also find it valuable. It’s particularly useful for those planning to conduct systematic reviews or synthesize evidence for evidence-based practice and policy decisions. Understanding the course scope will help you determine if it aligns with your professional development goals.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This syllabus provides an overview of the course but does *not* contain the actual course materials, assigned readings, datasets, or detailed instructions for conducting a meta-analysis. It does not offer step-by-step guides or worked examples of statistical calculations. It also doesn’t include the specific content of lectures or discussions. Access to the full course content requires enrollment and purchase.
What This Document Provides
* A detailed course description outlining the core focus on research reviews and meta-analyses.
* Information regarding course credit hours and the meeting schedule.
* Instructor contact information and office hour policies.
* A link to the official course website for accessing supplemental materials.
* A list of key student learning objectives related to meta-analytic techniques.
* Identification of required textbooks and the expectation of additional readings.
* Prerequisite course recommendations to ensure student preparedness.
* An overview of topics including effect size computation, heterogeneity, and publication bias.
