Utilizing Meta-Analyses to Guide Practice: A Primer

Meta-analysis is one approach for synthesizing research studies to identify generally effective instructional practices for students with learning disabilities (LD). In this article, we define core components of meta-analytic literature reviews, discuss how to interpret findings from meta-analyses, and provide guidelines for how research consumers can utilize meta-analyses to guide instructional practices for students with LD. We conclude that meta-analyses provide valuable information for determining evidence-based practices for students with LD.