This week you will submit the Literature Review section of your proposal. Each week you have been adding to your growing body of evidence to support your problem and proposed innovation to address the problem. The review of literature is a critical, analytical summary and synthesis of the current knowledge of your research topic. Thus it should compare and relate different theories, findings, etc., rather than just summarize them individually. The following resources will help guide you (in addition to our course textbooks):
The literature review section of a research proposal is a crucial component that provides a comprehensive and analytical summary of the existing knowledge related to the research topic. It aims to compare and relate different theories, findings, and perspectives rather than simply summarizing them individually. This section plays a significant role in setting the context for the proposed research and demonstrating its novelty and significance.
When conducting a literature review, it is important to use a systematic approach to identify and evaluate relevant research studies, scholarly articles, books, and other reputable sources. This ensures that the literature review is based on the most up-to-date and accurate information available. In addition to the course textbooks, the following resources can guide you in the process of conducting a literature review effectively:
1. Academic Databases: Utilize academic databases such as PubMed, JSTOR, Scopus, and Web of Science to search for relevant articles and studies. These databases provide access to a vast range of scholarly research across various disciplines.
2. Subject-Specific Databases: Depending on your research topic, there may be subject-specific databases that focus on a particular field or area of study. These databases can provide a more targeted and specialized search for relevant literature.
3. Online Libraries: Many universities and research institutions have online libraries that offer access to a wide range of scholarly articles, books, and other resources. These libraries often provide advanced search functions and filters to assist in finding the most relevant literature.
4. Reference Lists: Pay attention to the reference lists of articles and studies that you have already identified as relevant to your research topic. Reviewing the reference lists can help you identify additional sources that you may have missed during your initial search.
5. Review Articles: Look for review articles or book chapters that provide a comprehensive overview and synthesis of the existing literature on your research topic. These sources can serve as a valuable starting point in understanding the current state of knowledge in your field of study.
6. Professional Associations and Conferences: Explore professional associations and conferences in your research field. They often publish journals or conference proceedings that contain the latest research findings and advancements. These sources can provide insights into the current trends and hot topics in your field.
7. Government Reports and Policy Documents: Depending on your research topic, government reports and policy documents can provide valuable insights and data. These sources often contain research findings, statistics, and recommendations related to the problem or issue you are investigating.
8. Online Discussion Forums and Communities: Engage in online discussion forums and communities related to your research topic. These platforms can provide valuable insights, alternative viewpoints, and references to relevant literature that you may not have encountered through traditional search methods.
As you gather literature for your review, critically analyze and evaluate each source in terms of its relevance, reliability, and validity. Consider the research design, methodology, data analysis, and conclusions presented in each study. Identify common themes, gaps in knowledge, and areas of disagreement or controversy within the literature. This critical analysis will help you synthesize the information you gather and identify the key findings and theories that inform your research.
Remember that a literature review is not simply a list of summaries but rather a critical evaluation and synthesis of the existing knowledge. It should highlight the gaps in knowledge that your proposed research aims to fill and articulate the contribution your research will make to the field.