Literature Review Flashcards
An academic overview that synthesizes existing knowledge on a topic.
Literature Review
Functions of a Literature Review:
- Establishes study relevance.
- Identifies research gaps.
- Provides crucial information and context.
- Highlights contradictions in existing literature.
- Justifies the chosen research methodology.
- Discusses theoretical and conceptual frameworks.
The process of Writing a Literature Review is as follows:
- Literature Search
- Evaluation and Analysis
- Drafting the Review
Systematic identification and selection of relevant materials.
Literature Search
Things to do during Literature Search:
• Focus on high-quality, reputable sources (e.g., journals, books, online databases).
• Use specific keywords to enhance search efficiency.
• Consider using Boolean search strategies (AND, OR, NOT, quotations).
Things to do during Evaluation and Analysis:
• Assess reliability and relevance of selected references.
• Ensure references are recent (preferably within the last five years).
• Group references by categories relevant to your topic.
• Use concept maps to visualize relationships among references.
Things to do whilst Drafting the Review:
• Structure the review with a clear introduction and subsections.
• Synthesize findings to highlight research gaps.
• Define key terms, providing both operational and conceptual definitions.
• Ensure cohesion and clarity by using transitions and headings.
• Limit direct quotations; instead, paraphrase and cite appropriately.
A subsection in Literature Review wherein you explain the relevant concepts of your paper.
Conceptual Literature
A subsection in Literature Review wherein you present studies similar to your research, organized thematically, chronologically, or typologically.
Related Studies
The two (2) Kinds of Synthesis in Literature Review are:
- Microlevel Synthesis
- Macrolevel Synthesis
Consolidating ideas from multiple sources to explain a concept. Cluster related ideas, distinguish unique points, and arrange logically. Use multiple citations where applicable.
Microlevel Synthesis
Establishing a research gap by comparing studies. Focus on methods and conclusions across sources to draw insights.
Macrolevel Synthesis
Importance of Citing Sources:
- Credibility and Intellectual Honesty
- Avoiding Plagiarism
- Providing Evidence to Claims
Two (2) Forms of Citation:
- In-text
- Reference
Indicates the source within the text, typically including the author’s last name and the publication year.
In-text Citation
