Which research method focuses on an organized review of previous research?

The method that focuses on an organized review of previous research is the systematic review. Systematic reviews are comprehensive literature reviews that follow a structured and rigorous approach to identify, evaluate, and synthesize the existing body of research on a specific topic or question. They aim to minimize bias by employing explicit, pre-defined criteria for selecting studies and assessing their quality, making them a vital tool in evidence-based practice.

This approach contrasts with other research methods, which may involve different focuses or methodologies. For instance, while meta-analysis, a process often associated with systematic reviews, quantitatively combines results from multiple studies, a systematic review itself emphasizes a thorough qualitative synthesis. Content analysis examines the content of communication systematically but does not necessarily involve a review of prior research studies. Case studies involve in-depth exploration of a single instance or phenomenon rather than an organized review of existing literature. Thus, systematic reviews stand out as the best choice for an organized examination of previously conducted research.