Choose and discuss four purposes of a literature review
1. To provide a clear understanding of the existing knowledge and research on a specific topic: One of the main purposes of a literature review is to review and summarize the existing studies, theories, and concepts related to a particular research topic. This helps the researcher gain a deep understanding and familiarity with the existing body of knowledge on the subject. By examining and synthesizing previous literature, researchers can identify the gaps and limitations in current research, which can guide their own study design and research question formulation.
2. To justify and provide a rationale for the research: A literature review is also conducted to establish the need and significance of the proposed research. By examining prior studies, researchers can identify the gaps or unanswered questions in the literature that their research aims to address. This helps to build a strong rationale for why their research is important and how it contributes to the field.
3. To identify the methodologies, theories, and frameworks used in previous research: A literature review allows researchers to identify the different methodologies, theories, and frameworks used in previous studies. This provides them with valuable insights and potential approaches to consider for their own research. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different research methods and frameworks, researchers can make informed decisions about the best approach to undertake in their own study.
4. To establish a context for the research: - A literature review provides a context for the proposed research by situating it within the broader academic discourse. By examining and summarizing the theoretical underpinnings and key concepts discussed in prior studies, researchers can establish a connection between their research and the existing knowledge in the field. This helps readers and reviewers understand how the research fits within the larger academic context and contributes to the overall body of knowledge on the topic.
Overall, a literature review serves as a comprehensive foundation for research by helping researchers gain a better understanding of the existing knowledge, justifying the significance of their research, and providing a context for their study.
A literature review serves multiple purposes in research and academic writing. Here are four common purposes of conducting a literature review:
1. To establish the context: A literature review helps to provide a comprehensive understanding of the existing knowledge and research on a specific topic. It allows researchers to situate their own work within the broader academic conversation, highlighting gaps, controversies, and areas that require further exploration.
2. To identify relevant theories and concepts: A literature review helps researchers to identify conceptual frameworks, theories, models, and key concepts relevant to their research topic. By reviewing the existing literature, researchers can build upon the knowledge that already exists and apply relevant theories to their own research questions.
3. To evaluate the quality and reliability of existing research: A literature review allows researchers to critically assess the existing body of work in their field. They can evaluate the methodological rigor, validity, and reliability of previous studies, identify any limitations, inconsistencies, or biases present in the literature, and consider their implications for their own research.
4. To identify research gaps and formulate research questions: By exploring existing literature, researchers can identify knowledge gaps in their research area. They can highlight unanswered questions, areas of controversy, or underexplored topics. This process helps in formulating research questions that are well-grounded and contribute to the existing knowledge.
It is important to note that these four purposes are not exhaustive, and the specific objectives of a literature review may vary depending on the goals of the research and the nature of the topic being studied.