2.4: Synthesize Findings

Information is synthesized on an ongoing basis. As data is collected, it can be sorted and organized by the established areas and factors. Trends, patterns, and tendencies in responses emerge when research data is clearly summarized, simplifying the analysis stage. Furthermore, by summarizing data as research is being conducted, this step becomes more manageable.

Read Examples 2.1: Synthesis of Consumer Data on Sanitation and Hygiene in Malawi and 2.2: Synthesis of Consumer Data for Handwashing in Vietnam, for samples of synthesized findings.
On Decision Making Tool 2.12: Synthesizing Findings, summarize the data by area and factor (based on Key Information 2.1 and 2.2).
Once the research has been completed, tally the demographic numbers to use in reporting. See Example 2.3 for an example of tallied demographics.
Attach the final synthesis to Product 2: Overview of Research.

Step 2 Activities

Step 2 Decision Making Tools

Use your Decision Making Tools. They are critical to your focus. Decision Making Tools enable you to fully complete your Products.

Step 2 Products

Complete your Products for each Step. They are essential to your success. Products enable you to successfully direct your promotion efforts.

Product 2: Overview of Research, Section B

Step 2 References

Balnaves, M. and Caputi, P. (2001) Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods: An Investigative Approach. Thousand Oaks, California, Sage Publications.
Denzin, N.K. and Lincoln, Y.S. (Eds.) (2000). Handbook of Qualitative Research. (2nd Edition). Thousand Oaks, California, Sage Publications.
Nardi, P.M. (2002). Doing Survey Research: A Guide to Quantitative Research Methods (1st Edition). Hempstead, England: Allyn and Bacon.
Esterberg, K.G. (2002). Qualitative Methods in Social Research. Boston: McGraw-Hill.
Bogden, R.C. and Biklen, S.K. (2003) Qualitative Research for Education. Boston: Allyn and Bacon.
Johnson, A.P. (2005). (2nd Edition) A Short Guide to Action Research. Boston: Pearson/Allyn and Bacon.