foundations of an argument Flashcards
A literature review is
a synopsis of what researchers know based on
studies that have already been done on similar, relevant topics
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Research topic
oResearch problem(s) (can I measure it…)
oPurpose statement
oGuarding against appeal of authority
oVariables and concepts of interest
oHypotheses and research questions
how to read reaseerch eaxch step
Skim the paper to grasp the main idea, headings, and conclusion.
2. Carefully read the introduction to understand the research question and objectives.
3. Focus on the methodology to evaluate the study’s reliability.
4. Skim the results and delve into the discussion for key findings and their interpretation.
5. Take notes to summarize important points and questions.
6. Look up unfamiliar terms and concepts for better understanding.
7. Explore cited references for related works and broader knowledge.
8. Engage in discussions with others to gain insights and clarify doubts.
9. Practice regularly to improve your skills in reading research papers.
Primary sourcea
Original Materials
* Research paper, document, speech, or other sort of evidence written, created or
otherwise produced during the time under study.
* Report of Original findings (older articles are okay but make sure you use current ones!
Secondary source
Provide comments, interpretation and/or analysis of primary sources. Secondary sources
are one step removed from the original event/object (reviews, meta- analysis, systematic
reviews). Can also be a paper that was cited in another article.
Impact Factors (IF) Evaluating the research
what is it
why is it important
Related to academic journals
* A measure reflecting the average number of citations of articles
published in the journal.
* A proxy for the relative importance of a journal within its field
* A higher impact factor indicates higher quality journal (or is thought to).
* Lack of consistency in measurement
* Impacted by Journal Indexing
* Policies of editors (open access articles are starting to challenge trends)
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What makes an article “Good”
Well defined logical methodology
* Straight forward data collection and processing
* Study sample in the study matches closely with the population you
are applying the information too ( as close as possible)
* Published in a journal with peer review
* Study topic aligns with the focus of the journal
* Journal is considered good (Impact factor)
* Study is current and has many citations (not always necessary but a
good indicator of quality
Steps involved with
a literature search
Write out Write out the problem statement
Consult Consult secondary sources
Determine Determine keywords (descriptors
Find Library, Google Scholar, Web of Science
Read and
annotate
Excellent source of literature is reference list
at the end of an article.
Write Write the literature review
