##Review of Literature
A literature review is a comprehensive survey of scholarly sources on a specific topic. It provides a critical evaluation of these sources, identifies gaps, and situates the current research within the broader scholarly field. A well-conducted literature review lays a foundation for understanding the current state of research and directs future research efforts.
1. Location
The location in a literature review refers to where the researcher finds the relevant sources. This can include academic libraries, online databases, and specific research institutions that house significant repositories of scholarly materials.
2. Sources
Sources for a literature review can vary widely based on the discipline and the nature of the research question. They typically include peer-reviewed journal articles, books, conference papers, dissertations, and credible online resources. Selecting reputable sources is crucial for a valid and reliable literature review.
3. Online Search: CINAHL, COCHRANE, etc.
Online databases such as CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) and Cochrane Library are pivotal in conducting literature reviews, especially in the fields of healthcare and medicine. These databases provide access to a large volume of peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews, and clinical trials.
4. Purposes
The purposes of a literature review include:
– dentifying gaps in the existing research**
– Preventing duplication of work**
– Setting a framework for the research questions or hypotheses**
– Understanding the historical context and evolution of the field**
5. Method of Review
Methods of conducting a literature review can vary but typically involve:
– Systematic Reviews: Structured, comprehensive, and replicable. They often include meta-analysis.
– Narrative Reviews: More qualitative and exploratory, providing a broad overview of the field.
– Scoping Reviews: Used to map the key concepts underpinning a research area and the main sources and types of evidence available.