PURPOSE OF RRL

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.