HMPYC 80:
Research
Methodology
Chapter 06 –
The Place of Literature
and Theory in
HMPYC 8
Research
, ➢ 1. Introduction:
• Metaphorically, literature represents the roots of a tree that keep it firmly anchored to the ground; The med
supporting its existence and growth.
- Any research project should therefore be anchored and grounded in existing literature, as this ensures its re
standing in your chosen discipline’s body of knowledge.
• Literature refers to that collection of credible materials that anchors the topic of research into an existing bo
knowledge.
- The term literature search refers to the process of identifying, selecting and scrutinizing suitable literature f
study, while the literature review itself refers to a critical evaluation and critique of the relevant material.
➢ 2. General Functions of a Literature Review:
• A literature review is a mechanism for ensuring that the study is rooted in an existing body of knowledge a
discipline within which the study is conducted.
• Novice researchers commonly postpone their literature review until they have sharpened their research qu
come up with the design to investigate it.
- This is an ineffective strategy, however as the question then needs ongoing adjustments as new evidence
• Searching literature also helps to establish who else is working in the field, who is conducted what research
whether there is any previous research in support of your assumptions about the topic.
, ➢ 2. General Functions of a Literature Review:
• A good literature search avoids unnecessary duplication of research or, at least, enables an informed decision
the previous study.
- Replication research is a worthwhile cause for the novice researcher as it eases the many decisions required
conducting an inquiry.
• Through a literature review, you learn more about the history, origin and scope of the research problem.
- This enables demonstration of familiarity with knowledge on most recent and authoritative theories, accep
definitions and key concepts in the field of study.
- It will also enable the identification of evergreens or thought leaders; Those sources so central to the topic
miss crucial insights if you do not consult them.
• Be aware, however, of flogging dead horses, as some presumed monumental works could have been suppos
newer solutions far more advanced in perspective than what was seen as groundbreaking time.
- Thorough scrutiny of all sources helps to establish your credibility, as it shows knowledge of an area and the
issues at stake, stating that a good review increases of readers’ confidence in the researcher’s professional co
ability and background.
• A good literature review places a research project in context, showing the path of prior research and how the
project is linked to the former.
Research
Methodology
Chapter 06 –
The Place of Literature
and Theory in
HMPYC 8
Research
, ➢ 1. Introduction:
• Metaphorically, literature represents the roots of a tree that keep it firmly anchored to the ground; The med
supporting its existence and growth.
- Any research project should therefore be anchored and grounded in existing literature, as this ensures its re
standing in your chosen discipline’s body of knowledge.
• Literature refers to that collection of credible materials that anchors the topic of research into an existing bo
knowledge.
- The term literature search refers to the process of identifying, selecting and scrutinizing suitable literature f
study, while the literature review itself refers to a critical evaluation and critique of the relevant material.
➢ 2. General Functions of a Literature Review:
• A literature review is a mechanism for ensuring that the study is rooted in an existing body of knowledge a
discipline within which the study is conducted.
• Novice researchers commonly postpone their literature review until they have sharpened their research qu
come up with the design to investigate it.
- This is an ineffective strategy, however as the question then needs ongoing adjustments as new evidence
• Searching literature also helps to establish who else is working in the field, who is conducted what research
whether there is any previous research in support of your assumptions about the topic.
, ➢ 2. General Functions of a Literature Review:
• A good literature search avoids unnecessary duplication of research or, at least, enables an informed decision
the previous study.
- Replication research is a worthwhile cause for the novice researcher as it eases the many decisions required
conducting an inquiry.
• Through a literature review, you learn more about the history, origin and scope of the research problem.
- This enables demonstration of familiarity with knowledge on most recent and authoritative theories, accep
definitions and key concepts in the field of study.
- It will also enable the identification of evergreens or thought leaders; Those sources so central to the topic
miss crucial insights if you do not consult them.
• Be aware, however, of flogging dead horses, as some presumed monumental works could have been suppos
newer solutions far more advanced in perspective than what was seen as groundbreaking time.
- Thorough scrutiny of all sources helps to establish your credibility, as it shows knowledge of an area and the
issues at stake, stating that a good review increases of readers’ confidence in the researcher’s professional co
ability and background.
• A good literature review places a research project in context, showing the path of prior research and how the
project is linked to the former.
