According to Fink (2014), “a literature review is a systematic, explicit, and reproducible method

for identifying, evaluating, and synthesizing the existing body of completed and recorded work
produced by researchers, scholars, and practitioners.” According to Hart (2018), “ a literature
review as a critical examination and synthesis of the existing research and literature on a
particular topic, which helps to establish the current state of knowledge and identify research
gaps.” Grant and Booth (2009) describe a literature review as a methodical and systematic
search, selection, and analysis of existing literature on a specific topic, which aims to identify
gaps, inconsistencies, and areas for further research. This therefore means that literature
review is a systematic process that involves the collection of data or information from different
official sources, analyzing and combining them so as to identify gaps and fill them with
necessary information and build a strong foundation to research.

Identifying gaps in existing knowledge

According to Fink (2014),“ a literature review is essential in research as it helps researchers to

identify gaps in existing knowledge and build upon previous research.” Hart (2018) emphasizes
that a literature review can help researchers identify areas where further research is needed,
highlighting gaps in the existing literature. Petticrew and Roberts (2013) highlight the
importance of literature reviews in identifying gaps in existing research, allowing researchers to
build on previous studies and contribute new insights to the field. This therefore means that
literature review is there to guide researchers towards new research questions and directions.
It helps researchers to focus their studies on areas that have not been adequately explored. By
reviewing existing literature, researchers can identify gaps in the current knowledge base, build
on previous research, and develop a solid theoretical framework for their study. By analyzing
past research you pinpoint areas where knowledge is lacking or findings are conflicting,
highlighting potential avenues for your own investigation. The literature review may reveal gaps
in the current knowledge base, such as a lack of studies examining the long-term effects of
social media use on mental health or the role of specific social media platforms in influencing
mental health outcomes. By identifying these gaps, researchers can tailor their study to address
these specific areas of need and contribute new insights to the field.
One practical example of identifying gaps in the literature can be seen in a study by Smith
(2018) on the impact of social media on mental health among adolescents. In their literature
review, the authors found that while there was a significant amount of research on the negative
effects of social media on mental health, there was a lack of studies examining the potential
positive effects or protective factors. This gap in the literature led the researchers to focus their
study on exploring the potential benefits of social media use for adolescent mental health.

Developing a theoretical framework for research

In a study by Cooper (2016), the importance of a literature review is highlighted in the context
of developing a theoretical framework for research. By reviewing existing literature,
researchers can identify relevant theories and concepts that can be used to guide their study.
This therefore means that by reviewing existing literature, researchers can ensure that their
study is based on sound theoretical foundations and that their findings are consistent with
previous research. Researchers can ensure that their study is well-informed and contributes
meaningfully to the existing body of knowledge. The review strengthens your theoretical
framework by grounding it in established concepts and theories. Cooper (2024) emphasizes the
importance of literature review in helping researchers to establish the theoretical framework
for their study, identify key concepts and variables, and provide a rationale for their research
questions and hypotheses. Machi and McEvoy (2016) stress the significance of conducting a
systematic literature review to inform research design and methodology. They highlight the
role of literature reviews in synthesizing existing knowledge, identifying key concepts and
theories, and establishing a theoretical framework for the study. A literature review provides
context for the study by summarizing the current state of knowledge on the topic. This helps
researchers to understand the background and significance of their research question and how
it fits into the broader field of study.

A study by Smith (2012) found that excessive use of social media was associated with higher
levels of anxiety and depression among young adults. This study provides empirical evidence to
support the theoretical framework that social media can have negative effects on mental
health.
Building a strong foundation for research

According to Machi and McEvoy (2016) the importance of literature review is,“ to help
researchers to build a strong foundation for their research, identify key concepts and theories,
and synthesize existing knowledge in their field.” A thorough literature review immerses you in
the current knowledge and debates within your field, providing a solid foundation for your
research. This therefore means that you can use findings from literature review to support your
own arguments and interpretations. Booth, Colomb, and Williams (2020) stress the importance
of literature review in helping researchers to critically evaluate and synthesize existing research,
identify key debates and controversies, and contribute new insights to their field. A literature
review can help researchers to identify key theories, concepts, and methodologies that have
been used in previous studies, which can inform the design and methodology of their own
research. By building on existing knowledge and theories, researchers can ensure that their
study is grounded in established principles and contributes meaningfully to the field. A
literature review can also help researchers to critically evaluate and synthesize the findings of
previous studies, which can provide valuable insights and perspectives that can shape the
interpretation of their own results. By considering the strengths and limitations of existing
research, researchers can ensure that their study is well-informed and contributes to the
advancement of knowledge in the field.

One practical example of the importance of a literature review can be seen in a study
conducted by Smith (2015) on the impact of social media on consumer behavior. In their
literature review, the authors examined previous research on the topic and identified key
trends and findings that informed their own study. By building on existing knowledge, the
researchers were able to develop a research framework that guided their data collection and
analysis.

Shaping your research

Jones (2010) emphasizes the significance of conducting a thorough literature review to shape
the direction of research. Brown (2014) highlights the importance of critically evaluating
existing literature to inform the design and methodology of research studies. This means that a
well-conducted literature review can influence the outcomes and findings of research. Knowing
existing methodologies used in your field helps you to choose the most suitable approach for
your research question. You can position your research within the existing body of knowledge,
demonstrating it's originality and potential contribution. A well conducted literature review
showcases your understanding of the field and strengthens your credibility as a researcher. A
literature review helps you to sharpen your research question by understanding what's already
known and what remains unexplored. Hart (2018) emphasizes the role of literature reviews in
shaping the research process and guiding the development of research questions. He argues
that a well-conducted literature review helps researchers situate their study within the broader
scholarly conversation, critically evaluate existing literature, and generate new insights. Shaping
your research through a comprehensive literature review is crucial for ensuring that your study
is well-informed, relevant, and contributes meaningfully to the existing body of knowledge. By
conducting a thorough review of the literature, researchers can ensure that their study is
grounded in established principles, addresses important research questions, and provides
valuable insights that can advance the field.

For example, a study by Smith (2018) examined the relationship between social media use and
mental health outcomes among adolescents. The researchers conducted a comprehensive
literature review on the topic, synthesizing findings from previous studies on the subject.
Through their literature review, Smith identified a gap in the existing research on the specific
mechanisms through which social media use may impact mental health among adolescents.
This gap informed their research question and hypothesis, which focused on exploring the role
of social comparison and cyberbullying in mediating the relationship between social media use
and mental health outcomes. By shaping their research in this way, Smith et al. were able to
provide valuable insights into the complex relationship between social media use and mental
health among adolescents. Their study highlighted the importance of considering both
individual and contextual factors in understanding the impact of social media on mental health.
In conclusion a literature review is essential for guiding the research process, identifying gaps in
the current knowledge base, and building a strong theoretical foundation for a study. Without a
thorough literature review, researchers risk duplicating existing research, overlooking
important findings, and failing to contribute meaningfully to the field. By conducting a thorough
literature review, researchers can ensure that their study is well-informed and contributes
meaningfully to the existing body of knowledge.

2b. Compare quantitative research design to qualitative research design.

Babbie (2016) defines quantitative research design as a method of inquiry that focuses on
quantifying the relationship between variables through the collection and analysis of numerical
data. It aims to provide a precise and objective understanding of a phenomenon where as
Marshall and Rossman (2016) describe qualitative research design as a "holistic approach to
inquiry that focuses on understanding the social and cultural context in which individuals and
groups operate, and the meanings they attribute to their experiences." Johnson and
Christensen (2014) describe quantitative research design as a systematic process of collecting
and analyzing numerical data to investigate relationships between variables. It aims to provide
empirical evidence to support or refute hypotheses whilst Merriam (2009) views qualitative
research design as a "methodological approach that seeks to understand the complexities of
human behavior and social phenomena through the collection and analysis of rich, detailed
data." According to Trochim and Donnelly (2008), “ quantitative research design is a structured
approach to collecting and analyzing numerical data to test hypotheses and answer research
questions. It involves the use of statistical techniques to draw conclusions from the data
meanwhile Patton (2015) defines qualitative research design as a "systematic, flexible, and
iterative process that involves collecting and analyzing data to gain a deep understanding of a
particular phenomenon or issue." This therefore means that quantitative research design is a
method used in defining the relationship between variables through the collection of numerical
data whilst Qualitative research design is based on understanding the social and cultural
context in which individuals and groups operate and meanings they have to their experiences.

Data Collection Method

According to Creswell (2014), “quantitative research design typically involves the collection of
numerical data through methods such as surveys, experiments, and statistical analysis.” This
type of research design focuses on measuring and analyzing variables to test hypotheses and
make predictions. According to Creswell (2007), “ A variable refers to a characteristic or
attribute of an individual or an organization that can be measured or observed and that varies
among the people or organization being studied.” In contrast, qualitative research design, as
described by Creswell (2014), involves the collection of non-numerical data through methods
such as interviews, observations, and content analysis. This type of research design focuses on
exploring and understanding phenomena in depth, often using open-ended questions and
narrative analysis. On the other hand Leedy and Ormrod (2015) explain that quantitative
research typically involves the use of structured surveys or experiments to collect data, while
qualitative research relies on open-ended interviews, observations, or document analysis to
gather rich, detailed information.

Objectivity
According to Patton (2015), “Quantitative research design is more objective because it follows
a structured and systematic approach to data collection and analysis while Denzin (2017)
outlines that qualitative research design is often criticized for lacking objectivity due to its
reliance on subjective interpretations and researcher bias. Maxwel (2018) says that, “
quantitative research design is considered more objective because it aims to minimize bias and
subjectivity through rigorous data collection and analysis procedures”, while Morse (2012) says
that qualitative research design is often criticized for lacking objectivity due to its emphasis on
subjective experiences and meanings. According to Miles (2011) ,“qualitative research design is
often seen as less objective compared to quantitative research design because it involves the
researcher's interpretation of the data.” Creswell (2014) discusses the objectivity of
quantitative research design compared to qualitative research design. He argues that
quantitative research design is often seen as more objective because it relies on numerical data
and statistical analysis, which can be easily replicated and verified by other researchers. In
consensus with these authors, quantitative research design is more objective and it provides
accurate information which minimizes data biasing while qualitative research design is often
more subjective because it relies on the interpretation and understanding of the researcher,
which can be influenced by their own experiences and perspectives and this can result in biased
data and inaccuracy.

Generalizability

According to Flick (2017) “quantitative research designs are more likely to produce
generalizable results due to their focus on numerical data and statistical analysis, which allows
for findings to be applied to a broader population,” while Marshall and Rossman (2020) say
that,“qualitative research designs are often criticized for their lack of generalizability, as
findings are typically context-specific and may not be easily applied to other settings or
populations.” According to Maxwell (2013), “quantitative research designs are generally
considered to have higher levels of generalizability as they often involve larger sample sizes and
statistical analysis that allows for findings to be applied to a larger population,” whilst Smith
(2012) outlines that qualitative research designs typically involves smaller sample sizes and in-
depth, subjective analysis of data, which can make it difficult to apply findings to a larger
population. This is because quantitative research often uses random sampling techniques and
statistical tests to ensure that findings are representative of the population being studied and
qualitative research often focuses on understanding the unique experiences and perspectives
of individuals, rather than producing generalizable findings. While quantitative research design
is typically more generalizable, qualitative research design can still provide valuable insights and
understanding of complex phenomena that may not be captured through quantitative
methods.

Research questions

According to Creswell (2014), quantitative research design typically involves research questions
that seek to measure relationships between variables or test hypotheses. These questions are
often focused on determining the extent to which one variable predicts or influences another.
In contrast, qualitative research design, as described by Creswell (2014), involves research
questions that seek to explore and understand phenomena in depth. These questions are often
open-ended and aim to uncover the meanings and experiences of individuals. On the other
hand, Merriam (2014) explains that quantitative research design is characterized by research
questions that seek to quantify and measure phenomena, often using statistical analysis to
draw conclusions. These questions are typically structured and aim to test specific hypotheses.
In contrast, qualitative research design, as described by Merriam (2014), involves research
questions that seek to explore and understand complex social phenomena in their natural
settings. These questions are often exploratory and aim to generate rich, detailed descriptions
of the phenomenon under study. According to Patton (2013) ,“quantitative research design is
often used to answer research questions that require measurement and statistical analysis,
while qualitative research design is more appropriate for exploring the meanings and
interpretations of individuals in their natural contexts.” Therefore quantitative research design
is characterized by research questions that can be answered through numerical data analysis,
while qualitative research design is better suited for exploring the subjective experiences and
perspectives of individuals. According to Creswell (2014), quantitative research questions are
often focused on determining the relationship between variables, comparing groups, or
predicting outcomes. For example, a quantitative research question might ask, "What is the
effect of X on Y?" while Merriam (2014) addresses qualitative research questions as open-
ended and exploratory, aiming to uncover the meanings and experiences of individuals or
groups. For example, a qualitative research question might ask, "What are the experiences of
individuals living with chronic illness?"

In conclusion both both quantitative and qualitative research designs have their own strengths
and weaknesses, and the choice of research design should be based on the research questions,
objectives, and context of the study. While quantitative research utilizes larger sample sizes for
statistical analysis and generalizability, qualitative research tends to involve smaller sample
sizes for in-depth exploration. Qualitative research is more subjective and interpretive, while
quantitative research is more objective and focused on numerical data and statistical analysis.
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