Research Literacy (08-234)

17 - what is a literature review from Joshua Vossler on Vimeo.

1. Summarize
   • Who are the key contributors (how often are they cited) and what did they contribute to the body of knowledge on your topic? 
2. Synthesize
   • Chronological model: show how one author's ideas/findings were enriched by the next author, before another author later extended it, etc. 
   • Thematic model: synthesize the sources by themes, questions, or problems you are exploring.
3. Analyse
   • Critically evaluate your sources. Highlight contributions or flaws in the authors' position, methodology, or findings that influenced your research. 
4. Authorize
   • In light of your own research, do you support or oppose the literature you have reviewed? How does your research contribute or connect to what has gone before?

"The purpose of a literature review is to help you explain how the question to be investigated fits into the larger picture and why you have approached the topic the way you have. This section of a scholarly report allows the reader to be brought up to date regarding the state of research in the field and familiarizes him or her to any contrasting perspectives and viewpoints on the topic."

"Summarize and explain what research has been done on the topic, citing the sources as you mention them. Point out the different ways researchers have treated the topic. Point out any connections between the sources especially where one source built upon prior study. Explain how this past work fits together to make your research question significant. Your literature review should present your synthesis of previous research and lay the foundation for understanding your research and appreciating its value." Quote from Washington & Lee University

• Process