OBJECTIVES
Learning objectives of studying REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
1.Recognize the significance of reviewing literature in research.
2. Identify gaps, trends, and key findings in existing studies.
3.Understand how previous research influences new studies.
4.Evaluate the credibility and relevance of sources.
5.Compare and contrast different studies, theories, and methodologies.
6. Identify strengths, weaknesses, and biases in existing research.
7. Enhancing Research and Writing Skills*
8. Learn proper citation and referencing techniques (e.g., APA, MLA).
9.Justify the need for new research based on existing lite rature.
10.Gain familiarity with research trends and advancements in a field.
Introduction
to Review of Related Literature
Definition and Purpose of Review of Related
Literature
A review of related literature (RRL) is a systematic analysis of existing research and scholarly works relevant to a particular research problem. It helps researchers establish a foundation for their study by identifying key theories, methodologies, and findings in their area of interest (Creswell, 2012). According to Ary, Jacobs, and Sorensen (2010), an RRL synthesizes prior studies, highlighting existing knowledge, research gaps, and areas for further exploration.
The purpose of an RRL is to provide context for a research study, refine research questions, establish a theoretical framework, and justify the significance of the research. Johnson and Christensen (2014) emphasize that an effective literature review ensures that researchers build upon established knowledge rather than duplicating previous work. It also helps in identifying inconsistencies or contradictions in past research and provides insights into the best methodologies to use for the current study.
Importance
of Review of Related Literature
Understanding the Research Context
A literature review allows researchers to
understand how concepts, theories, and methodologies have evolved over time. By
analyzing previous studies, scholars can recognize recurring patterns,
theoretical developments, and emerging trends (Gay, Mills, & Airasian,
2012). Kumar (2011) suggests that an RRL facilitates a deeper understanding of
the subject matter and helps researchers situate their work within existing
academic discussions.
Identifying Research Gaps
One of the most critical aspects of an RRL is
identifying research gaps—areas where limited studies exist or where
conflicting results have been reported. Recognizing these gaps ensures that new
research contributes original insights rather than reiterating established
findings (Singh, 2006). Identifying gaps also helps researchers justify the
necessity of their study and formulate new research questions.
Developing Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks
An RRL provides a basis for constructing
theoretical and conceptual frameworks. Theoretical frameworks include
established theories that explain the phenomenon under investigation, while
conceptual frameworks outline specific concepts and variables relevant to the
study (Ary, Jacobs, & Sorensen, 2010). These frameworks help guide data
collection, analysis, and interpretation.
Informing Methodological Choices
By reviewing past research, scholars can determine
the most suitable research design, data collection techniques, and analytical
methods for their study (Cohen, Manion, & Morrison, 2007). Tavakoli (2012)
highlights that an understanding of previous methodologies enables researchers
to identify best practices while avoiding potential pitfalls in their own
study.
Avoiding Redundancy and Enhancing Credibility
A
well-structured literature review prevents unnecessary duplication of research.
By synthesizing existing knowledge, researchers can contribute meaningful advancements
in their field rather than repeating past studies (Creswell, 2012).
Additionally, demonstrating familiarity with existing literature enhances the
credibility of a research study, showing that it is grounded in scholarly work.
Sources of
Literature for Review
Primary Sources
Primary sources consist of original research
articles, empirical studies, theses, dissertations, and conference proceedings.
These sources provide firsthand data and direct evidence about a topic
(Tavakoli, 2012). Examples include research papers published in peer-reviewed
journals, government reports, and case studies.
Secondary Sources
Secondary sources interpret and analyze primary
research. These include review articles, books, and reports summarizing
multiple studies. Secondary sources are valuable for obtaining an overview of a
research topic and understanding broad academic discussions (Lovely
Professional University, 2014). Review articles published in journals and
academic books covering multiple studies fall into this category.
Tertiary Sources
Tertiary sources compile information from primary
and secondary sources. These include encyclopedias, dictionaries, and handbooks
that provide summaries and broad overviews of research topics (Tavakoli, 2012).
Research methodology dictionaries and reference books are examples of tertiary
sources.
Steps in
Conducting a Review of Related Literature
Identifying Relevant Literature
The first
step in conducting an RRL is identifying and collecting relevant sources using
academic databases, journals, and books. Effective search strategies involve
using appropriate keywords and Boolean search techniques to filter results
efficiently (Creswell, 2012). Popular databases for academic research include
Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest.
Evaluating
and Selecting Literature
Not all sources are
equally valuable for a research study. Researchers must assess literature based
on relevance, credibility, and recency. Johnson and Christensen (2014)
emphasize that reliable sources should be published in reputable journals or by
recognized academic publishers. Peer-reviewed articles, government reports, and
books by established researchers are considered high-quality sources.
Organizing
and Synthesizing Information
Once relevant literature
is collected, researchers must organize and synthesize the information
systematically. Common approaches to organizing literature include:
- Chronological
Organization – Arranges studies based on
their publication year to highlight the historical development of ideas.
- Thematic Organization
– Groups literature based on recurring themes, key concepts, or specific
research questions.
- Methodological
Organization – Categorizes studies based on
research designs, data collection methods, or analytical approaches (Gay,
Mills, & Airasian, 2012).Writing
the Literature Review
A
well-structured RRL includes an introduction outlining its purpose, a body
discussing key themes and findings from literature, and a conclusion
summarizing major insights and research gaps. Singh (2006) stresses the
importance of coherence, clarity, and logical progression in writing to
ensure a seamless flow of ideas. Cohen, Manion, and Morrison (2007) add
that the literature review should present a balanced discussion,
incorporating various perspectives within the field.
Common
Challenges in Conducting a Literature Review
Information
Overload
Given the vast
amount of research available, filtering relevant studies can be overwhelming.
Researchers must use refined search strategies and focus on peer-reviewed
sources to avoid unnecessary information overload (Singh, 2006).
Determining the
Relevance of Studies
Selecting
appropriate studies requires critical evaluation to ensure they align with the
research focus (Ary, Jacobs, & Sorensen, 2010). Researchers must carefully
assess abstracts, methodologies, and conclusions before including sources in
their review.
Maintaining
Objectivity
An
RRL should present a balanced and objective discussion of various studies.
Researchers must avoid bias by including multiple perspectives and not
selectively citing only those studies that support their hypotheses (Cohen,
Manion, & Morrison, 2007).
Conclusion
A review of related literature is a fundamental component of academic research, providing a comprehensive overview of past studies, identifying research gaps, and guiding methodological decisions. A well-conducted RRL ensures that researchers build upon existing knowledge while making meaningful contributions to their field (Creswell, 2012). By systematically analyzing relevant literature, scholars can establish the significance of their research, refine their theoretical framework, and ensure methodological rigor.
Figure 1
A concept map on introduction to review of related literature
References
Ary, D., Jacobs, L. C., & Sorensen, C. (2010). Introduction to research in education. ,Wadsworth Cengage Learning.
Cohen, L., Manion, L., &
Morrison, K. (2007). Research methods in education., Taylor & Francis
e-Library.
Creswell, J. W. (2012). Educational
research: Planning, conducting, and evaluating quantitative and qualitative
research., Pearson Publishers.
Gay, L. R., Mills, G. E., &
Airasian, P. (2012). Educational research: Competencies for analysis and
applications., Pearson Publishers.
Johnson, R. B., &
Christensen, L. (2014). Educational research: Quantitative, qualitative, and
mixed approaches. ,Sage Publications.
Kumar, R. (2011). Research
methodology: A step-by-step guide for beginners. ,Sage Publications.
Lovely Professional University.
(2014). Methodology of educational research and statistics., Lakshmi
Publications.
Singh, Y. K. (2006). Fundamental
of research methodology and statistics., New Age International Limited.
Tavakoli, H. (2012). A dictionary of research methodology and statistics in applied linguistics, Rahnama press.
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