Introduction
A
Review of Related Literature (RRL) is important for obtaining an overview of
the current knowledge on the topic. It provides the investigator with a
framework on which to build an appropriate hypothesis. Further, an RRL guides
the researcher in the direction of adding something new to the field without
duplicating previous efforts. The RRL should not simply summarize sources, but
critically analyze and evaluate published studies to provide a clear picture of
the state of the knowledge on the subject.
The
purpose of a literature review is to collect relevant, timely research on your
chosen topic, and synthesize it into a cohesive summary of existing knowledge
in the field. This then prepares you for making your own argument on that
topic, or for conducting your own original research. Different types of sources
for RRL is illustrated in Table 1.
Table
1
Table
Illustrating Types of Sources of RRL.
|
Source |
Definitions |
|
Primary
source |
Usually,
a report by the original researchers of a study. |
|
Secondary
source |
Description
or summary by somebody other than the original researcher, e.g., a review
article. |
|
Conceptual/
theoretical |
Papers
concerned with description or analysis of theories or concepts associated
with the topic. |
|
Anecdotal/
opinion |
Views
or opinions about the subject that are not research, review or theoretical in
nature. |
Components of Review
of Related Literature
Overview
And Critique
The
RRL comprises three main components. Firstly, it offers a concise overview and
critique of prior research, summarizing key findings and methodologies
employed. This sets the stage for the researcher to identify patterns and
trends in the existing literature.
Similarities
And Differences
RRL
explores the similarities and differences between past studies and the current
research. This comparative analysis not only aids in highlighting gaps in
existing knowledge but also helps justify the need for the new study.
Theoretical
Frameworks
An
RRL delves into the theoretical frameworks underpinning the research. It
synthesizes and integrates relevant theories and concepts from previous works,
contributing to the development of a strong theoretical foundation for the
current study.
Benefits
of Literature Reviews
Literature
reviews allow you to gain familiarity with the current knowledge in your chosen
field, as well as the boundaries and limitations of that field. It also helps
you to gain an understanding of the theory driving the field, allowing to place
one’s research question into context. In addition, it provides an opportunity
for you to see and even evaluate successful and unsuccessful assessment and
research methods in your field. Literature reviews prevent you from duplicating
the same information as others writing in your field, allowing you to find your
own, unique approach to your topic. It gives you familiarity with the knowledge
in your field, giving you the chance to analyze the significance of your
additional research.
In
short, review of related literature (RRL) is a part of the research report that
examines significant studies, theories, and concepts published in scholarly
sources on a particular topic. An RRL includes 3 main components:
· A
short overview and critique of the previous research.
· Similarities
and differences between past studies and the current one.
· An
explanation of the theoretical frameworks underpinning the research.
Significance of Review
of Related Literature
Although
the goal of a review of related literature differs depending on the discipline
and its intended use, its significance cannot be overstated. Here are some
examples of how a review might be beneficial:
Determining
Knowledge Gaps
One
of the foremost benefits of an RRL is its ability to identify knowledge gaps.
By thoroughly reviewing existing literature, researchers can pinpoint areas
where additional investigation is warranted, laying the groundwork for their
study's contribution to the academic conversation.
Avoiding
Duplication
An
RRL acts as a safeguard against redundancy. It ensures that researchers do not
replicate studies that have already been conducted, saving time and resources
while allowing for the exploration of new avenues of inquiry.
Overview
Of Research Areas
Additionally,
the review provides a broad overview of various research areas within the
discipline. This not only aids the researcher in understanding the current
landscape but also helps in contextualizing their own work within the broader
field.
Demonstrating
Familiarity
Demonstrating
familiarity with the topic is a crucial aspect of research credibility. An RRL
showcases the researcher's in-depth understanding of existing literature,
establishing the rationale for their study and reinforcing the credibility of
their work.
Purpose of RRL
Literature
Review
The
primary purpose of the Review of Related Literature (RRL) in research is to
conduct a comprehensive survey of existing scholarly works related to the
research topic.
Contextualization
It
helps in placing the research within the broader context of existing knowledge,
providing a background for the study.
Identifying
Gaps
RRL
allows researchers to identify gaps or areas where existing literature falls
short, paving the way for the justification of the new study.
Theory
Development
It
aids in the development of theoretical frameworks by synthesizing and
integrating relevant theories and concepts from previous research.
Methodological
Guidance
RRL
provides insights into various research methodologies employed in similar
studies, helping researchers choose appropriate methods for their own research.
Avoiding
Redundancy
It helps researchers avoid duplicating efforts
by highlighting what has already been explored, ensuring that the study
contributes novel insights.
Critical
Evaluation
Researchers
critically evaluate existing literature to assess the strengths and weaknesses
of previous studies, contributing to the refinement of research questions.
Supporting
Hypotheses
RRL
provides evidence and support for the hypotheses or research questions posed in
the current study, strengthening the overall argument.
Building
Credibility
A
thorough RRL enhances the credibility of the research by demonstrating the
researcher's familiarity with existing literature and the rationale for their
study.
Informing
Discussion and Conclusion
Findings
from the literature review often contribute to the discussion and conclusion
sections, where researchers compare their results with existing knowledge and
draw implications for future research.
The
purpose of literature review is briefly illustrated in Figure 1.
Figure
1
The
Purpose of Literature Review is Illustrated in brief.
The
review of studies conducted earlier is reported briefly in research proposals.
There are two was of reporting the same. One way could be all such related
studies be reported chronologically in brief indicating purpose, sample, tools
and major findings. Of course, this will increase the volume of research
proposal. Second studies with similar trends be put together and its important
trend/s be highlighted. This is bit difficult, but innovative. Normally in
review the surname of author and year in bracket is mentioned. There is also a
trend to report studies conducted in other countries separately. It is left to
guide and researcher whether such separate caption is necessary or not.
The researcher should conclude with
following points.
·
What has been done so far in this area?
·
Where? (Area wise)
·
When? (Year wise)
·
How? (Methodology wise)
·
What needs to be done?
Thus,
the researcher will identify the Research Gap.
