This recorded presentation gives a short, non-technical, introduction to meta-analysis, which is the statistical method used for combining results across studies in a systematic review. It explains what a meta-analysis is and why it is used, and examines how meta-analyses are presented in Cochrane reviews in the form of forest plots.
It's primarily aimed at Cochrane authors and trainers from Lower Middle Income Countries (LMICs). It was recorded in July 2025 and below you will find the videos from the webinar, together with the accompanying slides to download [PDF].
Note: This session was pre-recorded. While there is no live component, you can watch at your own pace and access the accompanying materials.
Start with these short videos
Watch the full presentation
Presenter Bio
Dr Mark Simmonds is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of York, UK and a UK Co-convenor of the Cochrane Statistical Methods Group. Mark has over 20 years’ experience in research into meta-analysis methods and practice. His research has a particular focus on individual participant data reviews, living systematic reviews, and understanding heterogeneity.
Start with these short videos
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Watch the full presentation
Additional materials
Download the slides from the webinar [PDF]
