Republic of the Philippines

EASTERN VISAYAS STATE UNIVERSITY

Tacloban City

GRADUATE SCHOOL

A Requirement in
EDUC505 (RESEARCH SEMINAR AND
PRACTICUM)

CONDUCTING THE REVIEW

OF RELATED LITERATURE
(A Learning Packet)

Prepared for:
MA. BELINDA C. LORA, Ph.D.

Prepared by:
GEORGETTE B. TIQUE
MAED-AS
Introduction:

Welcome to this learning packet on conducting the review of related

literature. In the pursuit of knowledge, researcher and scholars navigate a vast
ocean of information, seeking not only to contribute new insights but also to
build upon the wisdom, of those who have come before. The review of related
literature serves as both a compass and a treasure trove, guiding explorers
through the intellectual landscape and unveiling the accumulated knowledge of
the past. It is a critical foundation upon which new research is erected. In the
world of research and scholarship, the literature review stands as a formidable
pillar, an intellectual compass guiding researchers through the vast expanse of
existing knowledge. It is a journey through the collective wisdom, insights, and
discoveries of those treaded the path before us, illuminating the way forward in
our own pursuit of understanding.

In this learning packet, we will delve deeper into the intricacies of

conducting a review of literature- how to define research objectives, how to
conduct comprehensive research, how to analyze and synthesize findings, and
how to communicate your insights. As we journey through this terrain, remember
that the review of literature is not just an academic ritual but a vibrant dialogue
with the intellectual voices of the past and a platform for contributing your voice
to the conversation.

By the end of this learning packet, you will have a deeper understanding
and knowledge on how to conduct a review of related literature, on how to locate
and identify the resources for your future research As we embark on our own
scholarly quests, may we carry with us the lessons of the review of related
literature—the lesson of humility before the vast expanse of human knowledge,
the lesson of curiosity that drives us forward, and the lesson of gratitude for the
intellectual gifts of the past.

The primary objectives of a literature review are to:

1. Identify and summarize key theories, concepts, methodologies, and findings
related to the research topic.
2. Assess the strengths and weaknesses of previous research and identify
gaps or areas where further investigation is needed.
3. Establish the context and theoretical framework for a research project by
situating it within the broader body of knowledge.
4. Provide a basis for formulating research questions or hypotheses.
5. Support the selection of appropriate research methods and approaches.
6. Contribute to the development of a coherent and logically structured
argument in academic writing.
PRETEST
Directions:
Read each question carefully and select the best answer. Choose the letter (A, B,
C, or D) corresponding to your chosen option. Once you have completed the test,
compare your answers with the answer key provided.

1. What is the primary purpose of a literature review?

a) To present the author's original research findings
b) To provide an overview of existing research on a specific topic
c) To share personal opinions and experiences
d) To summarize the methodology of a research study
2. Which of the following is NOT a typical step in conducting a literature review?
a) Defining research objectives
b) Collecting primary data
c) Reading and summarizing sources
d) Writing the literature review
3. True or False: A literature review involves evaluating the quality and credibility
of each source and summarizing their main points.
4. When conducting a literature review, what is the significance of identifying
gaps in the existing literature?
a) Gaps help establish the author's expertise in the field.
b) Identifying gaps informs the research question and justifies the study.
c) Gaps are irrelevant to the literature review process.
d) Identifying gaps is not a common practice in literature reviews.
5. Which type of source is typically NOT included in a literature review?
a) Scholarly journal articles
b) Primary research data
c) Personal blog posts
d) Academic books

WHY CONDUCT A REVIEW OF LITERATURE?

I. Defining Review of Literature

A literature review is a critical and comprehensive survey and analysis of
existing scholarly literature, research, and published works relevant to a specific
topic, research question, or area of study. It serves as a foundational component
of academic research and provides an overview of the current state of knowledge
in the chosen field.
Literature reviews are commonly found in academic papers, theses,
dissertations, and research articles, and they play a crucial role in demonstrating
the depth of the author's understanding of the subject matter while also helping
readers to grasp the broader context of the research.
II. Literature Reviews are Conducted For Various Reasons:
1. For a review paper
2. For the introduction (and discussion) of a research paper, master’s, thesis or
dissertation
 3. To embark on a new area of research
4. For a research proposal

Conducting a literature review serves several important purposes in academic

research and scholarly writing. Here are some key reasons why:
• To Establish Context: A literature review provides the necessary background and
context for your research topic, helping readerss understand where your study fits
into the larger body of knowledge.
• To Identify Gaps in Existing Knowledge: By reviewing existing literature, you
can identify gaps, contradictions, or areas where further research is needed. This
can help you formulate research questions or hypotheses.
• To Define Key Concepts and Terminology: It allows you to define and clarify key
concepts and terminology relevant to your research, ensuring a shared
understanding among readers.
• To Evaluate Previous Research: A literature review allows you to critically assess
the strengths and weaknesses of previous studies, including their methodologies,
data, and conclusions.
• To Build a Theoretical Framework: It helps in constructing a theoretical
framework or conceptual model for your study, drawing on existing theories and
concepts.
• To Select Research Methods: A literature review can inform your choice of
research methods and data collection techniques by highlighting approaches that
have been successful in similar studies.
• To Avoid Duplication: It ensures that your research is not redundant by showing
what has already been done and published on your topic. This helps you focus on
original contributions.
• To Support Your Argument: In academic writing, literature reviews serve as
evidence to support your argument or thesis. They demonstrate your expertise
and credibility on the topic.
• To Stay Updated: Keeping up with the latest literature in your field is essential to
ensure that your research remains current and relevant.
• To Synthesize Information: A literature review involves synthesizing information
from multiple sources, enabling you to draw connections, patterns, and trends in
the existing literature.
• To Improve Writing and Research Skills: Conducting a literature review
enhances your research and critical thinking skills. It also helps you become a
better writer by learning how to summarize and synthesize information effectively.
• To Contribute to Knowledge: By conducting a literature review, you contribute
to the scholarly discourse in your field by summarizing, analyzing, and
interpreting existing research.
• To Obtain Funding: Many grant applications and research proposals require a
thorough literature review to justify the need for funding and demonstrate the
significance of the research.

Conducting a literature review will help you:

 Determine if proposed research is actually needed.
 Even if similar research published, researchers might suggest a need for
similar studies or replication.

 Narrow down a problem.

 It can be overwhelming getting into the literature of a field of study. A
literature review can help you understand where you need to focus your
efforts.
  Generate hypotheses or questions for further studies

 Background knowledge of the field of inquiry

o Facts

o Eminent scholars

o Parameters of the field

o The most important ideas, theories, questions and hypotheses.

 Knowledge of the methodologies common to the field and a feeling for their
usefulness and appropriateness in various settings.
In summary, a literature review is a foundational step in the research
process that serves to situate your study within the existing body of knowledge,
inform your research design, and contribute to the advancement of academic
understanding in your field.

III. Identifying Sources of Information

Identifying sources of information is a crucial step in conducting research,
whether for academic purposes, professional projects, or personal knowledge
acquisition. Here are various types of sources and methods to help you identify them:
• Library Catalogs: Use your local library's catalog or an online library catalog like
WorldCat to find books, journals, and other materials available in libraries
worldwide.
• Online Databases: Academic databases such as PubMed, JSTOR, IEEE Xplore,
and Google Scholar provide access to a wide range of scholarly articles, papers,
and research materials.
• Internet Search Engines: Utilize search engines like Google, Bing, or
DuckDuckGo to find web-based information. Be sure to use specific keywords and
advanced search operators for more precise results.
• Government Websites: Government agencies often publish reports, statistics,
and data on various topics. Look for official government websites at the local,
state, or national levels.
• Academic Institutions: University websites frequently provide access to research
publications, faculty profiles, and academic resources. Explore the websites of
universities and research institutions.
• Research Organizations: Organizations like the World Health Organization
(WHO), Pew Research Center, and RAND Corporation publish research reports
and data on specific subjects.
• Libraries and Archives: Visit local or specialized libraries and archives to access
rare books, manuscripts, historical documents, and primary sources.
• News Outlets: Newspapers, magazines, and online news sources can provide
current information and perspectives on various topics.
• Books: Look for books on your topic by searching library catalogs, online retailers
like Amazon, or specialized bookstores.
• Encyclopedias and Reference Works: Encyclopedias, dictionaries, and reference
books can provide concise overviews and definitions related to your subject.
• Interviews and Surveys: Conduct interviews with experts in your field or create
surveys to gather primary data.
• Social Media and Forums: Online forums, discussion boards, and social media
platforms can be sources of information and insights from individuals with
relevant experience or expertise.
 • Bibliographies: Examine the reference lists or bibliographies of books, articles,
and research papers to find additional sources related to your topic.
• Citations in Scholarly Articles: When you find a relevant scholarly article, review
its citations to locate earlier research that contributed to the topic.
• Professional Associations: Many fields have professional organizations that
publish journals, magazines, and reports. Explore these resources for industry-
specific information.
• Theses and Dissertations: University libraries often house theses and
dissertations, which can provide in-depth research on specific subjects.
• Patent Databases: If your research involves inventions or innovations, patent
databases like the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) can be
valuable.
• Conference Proceedings: Some conferences publish proceedings containing
research papers and presentations. Check conference websites or academic
databases for these materials.
• Archival Collections: For historical research, visit archives and collections that
house historical documents, letters, photographs, and more.
• Online Learning Platforms: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy
offer courses that include video lectures, readings, and assignments on various
topics.

Remember to critically evaluate the credibility, relevance, and currency of the

sources you find to ensure the reliability of the information they provide. Different
research projects may require a mix of primary and secondary sources, and the
choice of sources will depend on your specific research goals and the nature of
your study.

IV. Locating Sources of Information

Locating sources of information for research or other purposes can be a systematic
process. Here are step-by-step guidelines on how to locate sources effectively:
• Define Your Research Topic: Clearly articulate what you're looking for and what
specific information you need. The more precise your topic or research question,
the easier it will be to find relevant sources.
• Use Keyword Search: Start with a keyword search on online search engines like
Google, Bing, or specialized academic databases. Enter relevant keywords or
phrases related to your topic. Use quotation marks for exact phrases and Boolean
operators (AND, OR, NOT) to refine your search.
• Explore Online Databases: For academic or scholarly research, use online
databases like PubMed, JSTOR, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, or Google Scholar. These
databases provide access to academic journals, articles, conference papers, and
more. Use advanced search features to narrow down results.
• Visit Your Library: Your local library, as well as university or college libraries,
can be valuable resources. Use their catalogs or databases to search for books,
journals, and other materials. Librarians can offer assistance in locating physical
or digital resources.
• Check Government and Institutional Websites: Government agencies, research
institutions, and universities often publish research reports, statistics, and
valuable data on various subjects. Explore their websites and dedicated research
sections.
• Use Reference Materials: Consult encyclopedias, dictionaries, and reference
books to gain an overview of your topic and identify keywords and key concepts.
These materials can be found in libraries or online.
 • Access Academic Journals: Look for academic journals in your field. Many
universities provide access to online journal subscriptions for their students and
faculty. You can also use platforms like ResearchGate or Academia.edu to access
research papers and connect with researchers.
• Utilize Interlibrary Loan Services: If your local library doesn't have the materials
you need, use interlibrary loan services to borrow books or articles from other
libraries.
• Explore Open Access Repositories: Open access repositories like arXiv, SSRN, or
institutional repositories often provide free access to research papers and
preprints in various disciplines.
• Attend Conferences: If your research topic is cutting-edge, consider attending
conferences or accessing conference proceedings to find the latest research in your
field.
• Join Online Forums and Groups: Online communities, forums, and social media
groups related to your research area can be sources of information and a way to
connect with experts.
• Check Industry Publications: Industry-specific magazines, trade journals, and
association websites often contain valuable information and insights relevant to
specific fields or sectors.
• Explore Online Learning Platforms: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan
Academy offer courses on a wide range of topics, often including video lectures,
readings, and assignments.
• Use Citation Chaining: When you find a relevant source, check its references and
citations for additional sources. This can lead you to related and valuable
materials.
• Consider Primary Sources: If applicable, seek out primary sources such as
historical documents, interviews, surveys, or original data sources.
• Ask for Recommendations: Consult with professors, mentors, or experts in your
field for source recommendations. They may point you to key texts or influential
works.
• Keep Updated: Regularly revisit your sources and search for updated information,
especially if your research is ongoing.
Remember to critically evaluate the sources you find for their credibility, relevance, and
reliability. Not all sources are equal, and it's essential to use a mix of authoritative and
reputable materials in your research.
POST TEST:
1. What is the primary purpose of a literature review?

a) To present the author's original research findings

b) To provide an overview of existing research on a specific topic
c) To share personal opinions and experiences
d) To summarize the methodology of a research study
2. Which of the following is NOT a typical step in conducting a literature review?
a) Defining research objectives
b) Collecting primary data
c) Reading and summarizing sources
d) Writing the literature review
3. True or False: A literature review involves evaluating the quality and credibility of each
source and summarizing their main points.
4. When conducting a literature review, what is the significance of identifying gaps in the
existing literature?
a) Gaps help establish the author's expertise in the field.
b) Identifying gaps informs the research question and justifies the study.
c) Gaps are irrelevant to the literature review process.
d) Identifying gaps is not a common practice in literature reviews.
5. Which type of source is typically NOT included in a literature review?
a) Scholarly journal articles
b) Primary research data
c) Personal blog posts
d) Academic books
References:
• Asian Institute of Technology. Writing up research: Using the literature.
Retrieved 1/22/2009, 2009, from
http://www.languages.ait.ac.th/EL21LIT.HTM
• Green, B. N., Johnson, C. D., & Adams, A. (2006). Writing narrative
literature reviews for peer-reviewed journals: Secrets of the trade. Journal
of Chiropractic Medicine, 5(3), 101-117.
• Lyons, K. (2005). UCSC library - how to write a literature review. Retrieved
1/22/2009, 2009, from
http://library.ucsc.edu/ref/howto/literaturereview.html
• Boote, D. N., & Beile, P. (2005). Scholars Before Researchers: On the
Centrality of the Dissertation Literature Review in Research Preparation.
Educational Researcher, 34(6), 3-15.
• Cooper, H. M. (1998). Synthesizing Research: A Guide for Literature
Reviews (3rd ed.). Sage Publications.
• Fink, A. (2013). Conducting Research Literature Reviews: From the Internet
to Paper (4th ed.). Sage Publications.
• Galvan, J. L. (2020). Writing Literature Reviews: A Guide for Students of the
Social and Behavioral Sciences (8th ed.). Routledge.
• Hart, C. (1998). Doing a Literature Review: Releasing the Social Science
Research Imagination. Sage Publications.
• Machi, L. A., & McEvoy, B. T. (2016). The Literature Review: Six Steps to
Success (3rd ed.). Corwin.
• Ridley, D. (2012). The Literature Review: A Step-by-Step Guide for Students
(2nd ed.). Sage Publications.
• Webster, J., & Watson, R. T. (2002). Analyzing the Past to Prepare for the
Future: Writing a Literature Review. MIS Quarterly, 26(2), xiii-xxiii.