Which type of analysis would provide a global perspective on a research topic?

A meta-analysis is a statistical method that combines the results of multiple studies on a specific research topic to provide a comprehensive understanding of the overall findings. By aggregating data from various studies, a meta-analysis allows researchers to discern patterns, identify trends, and derive conclusions that can be generalized across different populations and settings. This approach provides a global perspective because it synthesizes diverse evidence, enhancing the reliability and validity of the conclusions drawn.

In contrast, a cross-sectional study typically examines data from a specific population at a single point in time, offering insights limited to that moment rather than a broader view over time. A case study is focused on an in-depth examination of an individual or specific instance, limiting its applicability to larger populations. Qualitative analysis, while valuable for exploring perceptions and experiences, typically emphasizes a smaller sample size and subjective interpretations, which does not facilitate a broader perspective in the same way that a meta-analysis does. By combining data from numerous sources, meta-analyses are essential for drawing more generalized conclusions from existing research, thereby providing a global outlook on the topic under investigation.