Literature Review
Putting Things Together
Answer a Research Question: Attempts to answer a specific research question or clarify the current state of knowledge on the topic.
Synthesizing. The literature review answers the question by connecting findings from multiple studies, identifying common themes, patterns, and gaps in the research. This synthesis helps create a better understanding of the topic.
Evaluating the Quality of Research: Assesses the quality and reliability of the studies reviewed, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of the methods and findings.
Identifying Gaps or Areas for Future Research: Highlight areas where more research is needed, providing guidance for future studies.
A literature review uses existing research on a topic to answer a specific question/identify patterns. The paper should synthesize various sources to help answer a research question.
STEM
Structure/Style: STEM literature reviews are normally structured around recent, peer-reviewed studies. They follow a systematic approach, summarizing the current state of knowledge, identifying gaps, and outlining the methods and results of previous studies. They usually use straightforward and concise language, emphasizing facts, data, and specific outcomes. The writing tends to be objective and impersonal.
Purpose: The goal is typically to provide a clear understanding of the existing research to justify the need for a new study. Reviews may also evaluate the reliability and validity of methodologies and findings in the field.
HUMANITIES
Structure/Style: Literature reviews in the humanities are more thematic or argumentative, exploring how various theories, perspectives, or historical contexts have evolved. The synthesis tends to be more interpretive and the style more personal.
Purpose: Examine themes, concepts, or ideas rather than empirical data. For instance, a review might explore how different authors interpret a theme like "sovereignty" in relation to colonized nations or "justice" in ancient philosophy.