I have a paper due Thursday April 8th The responses should be pages in length (typed, double-spaced, Times New Roman 11 pt. font) and answer each of the assigned questions completely and include at least one external scholarly reference that is not the textbook. On identifying “scholarly” references, see the section in this syllabus entitled “using sources.” The questions you need to respond to  (fully and equally):

Question 1: In a scholarly context, what is the significance of using external references in academic writing?

In academic writing, using external references is of great significance as it enhances the credibility, depth, and validity of the research. By citing external sources, researchers demonstrate that their work is built upon a foundation of existing knowledge and ideas in the field. This not only acknowledges the contributions of previous scholars but also strengthens the overall argument or thesis being presented.

External references provide a basis for comparing and contrasting existing theories, methodologies, and empirical findings. They help to situate the research within a broader context and facilitate the identification of gaps in knowledge that the current study aims to address. Moreover, external references can also serve as alternative perspectives or counterarguments to the researcher’s own ideas, enabling a critical examination of the topic under investigation.

Additionally, external references serve as evidence and support for the claims and assertions made in the academic writing. They provide credibility and authority to the arguments by drawing on the work of established scholars, experts, or reputable sources. These references lend weight to the author’s arguments and persuade readers of the validity of their claims.

Furthermore, citing external references shows the researcher’s engagement with the existing scholarly discourse and the ability to critically evaluate and synthesize information from various sources. It reflects an understanding of the field and a commitment to ongoing intellectual dialogue within the academic community. By referencing other scholars, researchers actively participate in the ongoing conversation and contribute to the collective knowledge of the discipline.

Question 2: How can one determine if a reference is considered scholarly?

To determine if a reference is scholarly, it is essential to evaluate the source based on certain criteria. Generally, scholarly sources are those that have undergone a rigorous peer review process, are published in reputable academic journals or books, and are written by experts in the field. Some key indicators that can help identify a scholarly reference include:

1. Peer review: Scholarly articles are typically subjected to a rigorous peer review process, where experts in the field evaluate the quality, methodology, and validity of the research before publication. This ensures that the information presented is trustworthy and of high scholarly standard.

2. Author credentials: Scholarly references are usually authored by individuals who possess extensive expertise, credentials, or qualifications in the discipline. These authors are often affiliated with reputable academic institutions or research organizations.

3. Citations and references: Scholarly sources typically include a comprehensive list of citations and references, as they build upon existing knowledge and contribute to the ongoing academic discourse. The presence of a substantial reference list indicates that the source is grounded in a broader scholarly context.

4. Journal or publisher reputation: The reputation of the journal or publisher is another crucial factor in determining the scholarly nature of a reference. Well-established and respected academic publishing houses or journals are more likely to publish high-quality scholarly research.

5. Language and writing style: Scholarly references are characterized by a formal, technical, and specialized language. They adhere to specific citation styles and maintain a logical structure with clear research objectives, methodology, and conclusions.

It is crucial to note that not all references found in academic writing need to be scholarly. Depending on the research topic and the type of argument being made, other sources such as news articles, government reports, or conference proceedings may be appropriate. However, when it comes to supporting theoretical frameworks, empirical evidence, or foundational knowledge, it is advisable to rely on scholarly references to ensure academic rigor and credibility.

In conclusion, using external references in academic writing enhances credibility, depth, and validity by acknowledging the contributions of previous scholars, providing evidence and support for claims, and situating research within a broader academic context. Scholarly references can be identified through indicators such as peer review, author credentials, citations and references, journal or publisher reputation, and language and writing style.