Silveira Bianchim Mayara, France Emma F, Noyes Jane
School of Medical and Health Sciences Bangor University Bangor UK.
Centre for Healthcare and Community Research, Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport University of Stirling Stirling UK.
Cochrane Evid Synth Methods. 2024 Dec;2(12):e70009. doi: 10.1002/cesm.70009. Epub 2024 Dec 22.
The use of visual methods in qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) adds a valuable dimension to the synthesis process by enhancing understanding and knowledge generation. Visual methods are currently underused and underreported in QES.
This is the first study to describe accessible visual methods that support various stages of QES and to show the application of visual methods to a Cochrane QES of 43 studies using meta-ethnography and systematic review methods. This study also addresses the involvement of stakeholders including the public, practical considerations of equity, diversity, inclusion, and reflexivity in the selection and application of visual methods.
In a novel approach, the review authors utilized a combination of remote and in-person visual methods to initiate and develop their synthesis, involving stakeholders throughout the process. The review authors used methods including paper labels, cartoons, infographics, virtual whiteboards, and diagrams. The rigorous use of visual methods in the QES facilitated data visualization, remote analysis meetings, interpretation of extensive data, and meaningful patient and public involvement.
QES authors are encouraged to consider the use of visual methods, particularly when involving the public in the synthesis process. When selecting visual methods, authors should consider how they align with the study's objectives, suit the stage of synthesis, might enhance analysis, their available resources, and the team's technical skills.
在定性证据综合（QES）中使用可视化方法，通过增强理解和知识生成，为综合过程增添了有价值的维度。目前，可视化方法在QES中未得到充分利用且报道不足。
本研究首次描述了支持QES各个阶段的易用可视化方法，并展示了可视化方法在一项使用元民族志和系统评价方法对43项研究进行的Cochrane QES中的应用。本研究还探讨了利益相关者的参与，包括公众、公平、多样性、包容性以及在可视化方法选择和应用中的反思性等实际考虑因素。
采用一种新颖的方法，综述作者利用远程和现场可视化方法相结合的方式启动和开展他们的综合工作，在整个过程中让利益相关者参与其中。综述作者使用了包括纸质标签、漫画、信息图、虚拟白板和图表等方法。在QES中严格使用可视化方法有助于数据可视化、远程分析会议、对大量数据的解读以及患者和公众有意义的参与。
鼓励QES作者考虑使用可视化方法，尤其是在让公众参与综合过程时。在选择可视化方法时，作者应考虑它们如何与研究目标相一致、适合综合阶段、可能增强分析效果、可用资源以及团队的技术技能。
