I just thought that I would put this question out here because I am currently working on a [meta analysis](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meta-analysis) of a particular research question in my field (HCI/information science). Moreover, this question is new and has not been answered in very detail so far.

I have done most of the usual ways described in other resources as follows:

1. I have done a comprehensive review of the relevant literature pertaining to this particular research question. This is a new area and the number of **directly relevant** papers are ~<50. I have also compiled an exhaustive bibliography of the **indirectly relevant** papers in this area. That number is ~<150.
2. Out of this set of **directly relevant** literature, I have identified 23 quantitative empirical studies, 14 qualitative empirical studies and the rest are theoretical pieces/position pieces/framework papers.

The challenge I am currently facing is how to meta-analyze the data. In HCI, it is not common to freely distribute empirical datasets (although signs of change are imminent in the atmosphere. :)) and I have sent out polite emails to the relevant researchers inquiring if I could have some manner of access to these datasets. The rate of response is ~50% so far in responding to my email but only about ~5% want to actively share their datasets.

Therefore, the only other option (that I can see right now) is to compile, summarize and make sense of data and results already reported in the qualitative and quantitative papers.

I was wondering if any of you experienced (*and also not-so-experienced* :)) academicians/researchers had any insights into how to actually go about doing a meta analysis from the bottom up.

The main online resources which I have been using so far to tackle this problem is given

* [www.statistical-solutions-software.com/what-is-meta-analysis](http://www.statistical-solutions-software.com/what-is-meta-analysis/),
* [www.wilderdom.com/research/meta-analysis.html](http://www.wilderdom.com/research/meta-analysis.html),
* [www.psychwiki.com/wiki/Meta-analysis](http://www.psychwiki.com/wiki/Meta-analysis) and
* [echo.edres.org:8080/meta/](http://echo.edres.org:8080/meta/).

Please do note that I am not expecting any detailed step-by-step "*spoonfeeding*" response. Pointing me to some helpful resources is fine. In addition, personal anecdotes or valuable experiences will be really appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to read this question.