Unit II

Literature Review
Concept of Literature Review
• Definition:
• A literature review is a critical and systematic analysis of existing research and
scholarly articles, books, reports, and other sources on a particular topic.

• Purpose:
1. Identification of Gaps:
• To identify existing gaps, controversies, or unanswered questions in the current
body of knowledge.

2. Contextualization:
• To provide a context for the research by placing it within the existing literature
and theoretical framework.
Concept of Literature Review
• Purpose:
3. Understanding Trends:
• To understand the historical development and evolution of research in the
chosen field.

4. Methodological insights:
• To gain insights into research methodologies, approaches, and tools used in
previous studies.

5. Conceptual Framework:
• To develop a conceptual framework that guides the current research.

6. Theoretical Foundations:
• To explore and understand the theoretical foundations that inform the research
topic.
Importance of Literature Review
1. Contextualizing Research:
• A literature review provides a context for the research, helping readers
understand its relevance and significance.

2. Identification of Gaps:
• A literature review helps identify gaps in existing research, guiding researchers on
where their study fits within the current state of knowledge.

3. Avoiding Redundancy:
• Researchers can avoid duplicating previous work by understanding what has
already been done in their area of interest.

4. Theoretical Framework:
• A literature review assists in the development of a theoretical framework by
synthesizing and integrating existing theories and concepts.
Importance of Literature Review
5. Methodological Guidance:
• Researchers gain insights into various research methodologies, data collection
techniques, and analytical tools employed in previous studies.

6. Quality Enhancement:
• A literature review contributes to the overall quality and credibility of research by
providing a strong foundation of relevant and reliable sources.

7. Informed Decision-Making:
• Researchers can make informed decisions about the scope, direction, and
methods of their study based on a comprehensive understanding of existing
literature.
Function of Literature Review
1. Surveying Literature:
• The literature review serves as a comprehensive survey of existing literature
related to the research topic.

2. Synthesizing Information:
• The literature review involves synthesizing information from diverse sources to
create a coherent narrative that informs the research.

3. Critical Analysis:
• The review critically evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of previous
research, identifying gaps or areas requiring further investigation.

4. Organizing Themes:
• It helps organize literature into themes or categories, aiding in the presentation
and discussion of findings.
Function of Literature Review
5. Providing Historical Context:
• The literature review places the research within a historical context, highlighting
the evolution of ideas and theories over time.

6. Building a Conceptual Framework:

• The literature review contributes to the construction of a conceptual framework,
offering a theoretical basis for the research.

7. Informing Hypotheses and Research Questions:

• Literature review guides the formulation of the hypotheses or research questions
by addressing existing gaps or controversies.
Conclusion
• A literature review is a fundamental component of scholarly research, playing a
crucial role in shaping the direction, scope, and quality of a study.

• It not only provides a comprehensive overview of existing knowledge but also

guides researchers in the formulation of hypotheses, development of theoretical
frameworks, and identification of gaps that contribute to the advancement of
knowledge in a particular field.
Steps in Literature Review
1. Define the Scope of the Review:
• Clearly define the research question or objective of the literature review.
• Determine the scope and boundaries of the review in terms of time, geography,
and specific themes.

2. Conduct Preliminary Searches:

• Begin with preliminary searches to identify key terms and concepts related to the
research question.
• Explore databases, academic journals, and other relevant sources to get an initial
understanding of the literature landscape.

3. Select Search Keywords and Phrases:

• Identify and refine keywords and phrases that are directly related to the research
topic.
• Consider synonyms, alternative terms, and variation to capture a comprehensive
range of literature.
Steps in Literature Review
4. Choose Relevant Databases and Sources:
• Select appropriate databases, libraries, and repositories for conducting a
systematic search.

5. Conduct a Systematic Search:

• Perform a systematic search using the selected keywords and phrases.
• Use Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to combine or exclude terms for a focused
search.

6. Screen and Select Literature:

• Review the search results and screen the literature based on relevance to the
research question.
• Exclude irrelevant or outdated sources and focus on high-quality, peer-reviewed
publications.
Steps in Literature Review
7. Organize and Catalog Articles:
• Develop a systematic approach to organize and catalog selected articles.
• Use reference management tools to store, categorize, and annotate articles for
efficient retrieval.

8. Evaluate and Critically Appraise Sources:

• Critically evaluate the quality and reliability of selected sources.
• Consider factors such as the author’s credentials, research methodology, and
publication venue.

9. Synthesize and Categorize Information:

• Synthesize information from selected sources to identify patterns, themes, and
trends.
• Categorize literature based on commonalities and distinctions to create an
organized structure.
Steps in Literature Review
10. Identify Gaps and Controversies:
• Evaluate the literature to identify gaps, controversies, or unresolved questions.
• Highlight areas where further research is needed or where differing perspectives
exist.

11. Write the Literature Review:

• Draft the literature review using a coherent structure that includes an
introduction, main body, and conclusion.
• Ensure a logical flow that presents key themes, debates, and findings.

12. Revise and Refine:

• Review and revise the literature review to enhance clarity, coherence, and
conciseness.
• Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or colleagues to refine the review.
Steps in Literature Review
13. Include Proper Citations:
• Properly cite all sources used in the literature review using a consistent citation
style.
• Follow the guidelines of the selected citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).

14. Update and Maintain the Review:

• Periodically update the literature review to include the latest research.
• Maintain an organized record of references and continue to monitor
developments in the field.
Conclusion
• Conducting a literature review is a systematic and iterative process that involves
defining the scope, searching for relevant literature, critically evaluating sources,
and synthesizing information.

• Following these steps ensures a comprehensive and well-organized literature

review that contributes to the overall quality of the research.
Selection of Appropriate Literature
Introduction:
• The selection of literature is a crucial step in the literature review process.
• Choosing appropriate literature involves identifying and including sources that
are relevant, credible, and contribute significantly to the understanding of the
research topic.

1. Define Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria:

• Establish clear criteria for selecting literature based on the research question or
objective.
• Define parameters such as publication date, type of source (e.g., peer-reviewed
journals, books), and relevance to the research topic.
Selection of Appropriate Literature
2. Relevance to Research Question:
• Prioritize literature directly related to the research question or objective.
• Assess how each source contributes to the overall understanding of the topic.

3. Peer-Reviewed Publications:
• Give preference to peer-reviewed journals and scholarly publications.
• These sources undergo rigorous review processes, ensuring higher quality and
reliability.

4. Authoritativeness of Authors:
• Consider the credentials and expertise of the authors.
• Select literature authored by recognized experts or scholars in the field.
Selection of Appropriate Literature
5. Research Methodology:
• Evaluate the research methodology employed in the literature.
• Choose sources that utilize sound research methods, ensuring the validity and
reliability of findings.

6. Publication Venue:
• Assess the reputation and impact factor of the publication venue.
• High-impact journals or reputable publishers often indicate quality research.

7. Diversity of Sources:
• Include a diverse range of sources to provide a comprehensive view.
• Consider literature from different geographic locations, cultural perspectives, and
academic disciplines.
Selection of Appropriate Literature
8. Timeliness and Currency:
• Prioritize recent literature to ensure the information is current.
• For rapidly evolving fields, consider the relevance of older literature in providing
historical context.

9. Avoiding Bias:
• Be aware of potential bias in selected literature.
• Aim for a balanced representation of perspectives and avoid over-reliance on a
single viewpoint.

10. Check Citations and References:

• Examine the citations and references within the literature.
• Check if the sources are cited appropriately and if they lead to other reputable
works.
Selection of Appropriate Literature
11. Consideration of Literature Type:
• Evaluate the type of literature (e.g., primary research articles, reviews, theoretical
papers).
• Choose a mix of literature types to capture different aspects of the research topic.

12. Cross-Verification:
• Cross-verify information across multiple sources.
• Ensure consistency and reliability by consulting different perspectives.

13. Audience and Purpose:

• Consider the intended audience and purpose of the literature.
• Align the selected sources with the goals and objectives of the research.
Selection of Appropriate Literature
14. Feedback and Peer Review:
• Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or colleagues on the appropriateness of
selected literature.
• Peer review ensures a more comprehensive and rigorous selection process.

Conclusion:
• The selection of appropriate literature is a strategic process that involves defining
criteria, prioritizing relevance, considering authoritativeness, and ensuring
diversity.
• By carefully curating a collection of relevant and credible sources, researchers can
build a strong foundation for a high-quality literature review that contributes
meaningfully to the research field.
Searching Literature Through the Internet
Introduction:
• The internet has become a crucial tool for accessing a vast array of academic and
IT-related literature.
• Efficient literature search is essential for obtaining relevant information,
understanding current trends, and identifying IT issues.

1. Selecting Search Engines and Databases:

• Choose reputable search engines and databases for academic and IT literature.
• Examples include Google Scholar, PubMed, JSTOR, EBSCOhost, and IT-specific
databases.
Searching Literature Through the Internet
2. Defining Search Terms:
• Clearly define search terms related to the research topic or IT issues.
• Utilize synonyms, alternative terms, and specific keywords to broaden or narrow the
search

3. Boolean Operators:
• Understand and use Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to enhance search precision.
• Combine terms to create complex search queries that better reflect the research focus.

4. Filters and Advanced Search Options:

• Utilize filters and advanced search options provided by search engines and databases.
• Filter by publication date, document type, author, and other criteria to refine search
results.
Searching Literature Through the Internet
5. Alerts and Notifications:
• Set up alerts or notifications for new publications in the chosen field.
• Stay updated on the latest research and IT developments.

6. Citation Tracking:
• Use citation tracking tools to identify highly cited and influential articles.
• Explore the works that have cited a particular article to discover related
literature.

7. Access to Full Text:

• Check for access to the full text of articles and publications.
• Utilize institutional subscriptions, open-access resources, or interlibrary loan
services.
Searching Literature Through the Internet
8. Keeping an Organized Record:
• Maintain an organized record of search results.
• Use reference management tools like EndNote, Zotero, or Mendeley to organize,
annotate, and cite resources.

9. Evaluating Website Credibility:

• Assess the credibility of websites hosting IT-related literature.
• Prefer academic institutions, established publishers, and reputable organizations for
reliable information.

10. Utilizing Academic and IT Journals:

• Explore academic journals and IT magazines for in-depth analysis and insights.
• Academic journals provide rigorous research, while IT magazines offer practical
perspectives.
Identifying IT Issues
1. Analyzing Research Articles:
• Examine research articles for discussions on IT challenges and issues.
• Identify key findings and conclusions related to IT problems or opportunities.

2. Reviewing Industry Reports:

• Access industry reports and market analyses.
• Identify trends, challenges, and emerging issues within specific industries.

3. Exploring Case Studies:

• Explore IT case studies to understand real-world challenges.
• Case studies offer insights into how IT navigate and address issues.
Identifying IT Issues
4. Surveying IT News and Reports:
• Monitor IT news sources and reports for current issues.
• News articles and reports provide timely information on evolving IT scenarios.

5. Examining Academic Reviews and Discussions:

• Read academic reviews, discussions, and literature critiques.
• Scholars often analyze and discuss critical IT issues within the academic context.

6. Networking and Professional Organizations:

• Engage with professional organizations and networks.
• Attend conferences, webinars, and industry events to gain firsthand knowledge of IT
challenges.
Identifying IT Issues
7. Consulting Industry Experts:
• Reach out to industry experts and professionals for insights.
• Interviews and expert opinions provide valuable perspectives on current IT issues.

Conclusion:
• Effective literature searching through the internet is a vital skill for researchers and
IT professionals.
• By mastering search techniques, critically evaluating sources, and staying informed,
individuals can identify and analyze IT issues, contributing to informed decision-
making and strategic planning within the IT landscape.
Practices of Writing Literature Review
Introduction:
• Writing a literature review is a systematic process that involves critical evaluation,
synthesis, and organization of existing research on a specific topic.
• Effective practices in writing a literature review ensure clarity, coherence, and a
strong foundation for further research.

1. Understand the Purpose:

• Objective clarity:
• Clearly understand the purpose of the literature review – whether it is to identify
gaps, synthesize knowledge, or provide historical context.
• Align with Research Goals:
• Ensure that the literature review aligns with the research goals and contributes
meaningfully to the overall study.
Practices of Writing Literature Review
2. Conduct Thorough Literature Search:
• Comprehensive Search:
• Conduct a thorough literature search using reputable databases, journals, and
academic sources.
• Utilize Keywords:
• Employ relevant keywords, synonyms, and alternative terms to capture a
comprehensive range of literature.

3. Organize Literature Effectively:

• Create Categories:
• Organize literature into categories or themes based on commonalities and
distinctions.
• Logical Flow:
• Ensure a logical flow within the literature review, with each section contributing to
the overall narrative.
Practices of Writing Literature Review
4. Critical Evaluation of Sources:
• Assess Source Credibility:
• Critically evaluate the credibility and reliability of each source.
• Consider the author’s credentials, research methodology, and publication venue.
• Identify Bias:
• Be aware of potential bias in selected sources and strive for a balanced
representation of perspectives.

5. Synthesize Information:
• Highlight Key Findings:
• Synthesize information from various sources to identify key findings, themes, and
trends.
• Integration of Perspectives:
• Integrate diverse perspectives to present a holistic view of the research topic.
Practices of Writing Literature Review
6. Provide Context and Historical Overview:
• Contextualization:
• Provide a context for the research by placing it within the historical and theoretical
framework.
• Chronological Organization:
• Consider organizing the literature chronologically to showcase the historical
development of ideas.

7. Highlight Gaps and Controversies:

• Identify Research Gaps:
• Clearly highlight gaps, controversies, or areas where further research is needed.
• Critical Discussion:
• Engage in a critical discussion of existing literature, emphasizing the unresolved
aspects.
Practices of Writing Literature Review
8. Writing Style and Language:
• Clarity and Conciseness:
• Write with clarity and conciseness, avoiding unnecessary jargon or overly complex
language.
• Professional Tone:
• Maintain a professional and scholarly tone throughout the literature review.

9. Use of Citations:
• Consistent Citation Style:
• Use a consistent citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) throughout the literature
review.
• Proper Attribution:
• Properly attribute ideas, concepts, and findings to the original authors.
Practices of Writing Literature Review
10. Revise and Seek Feedback:
• Revision Process:
• Review and revise the literature review for coherence, clarity, and accuracy.
• Peer Review:
• Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or colleagues to refine the review.

11. Avoid Plagiarism:

• Proper Attribution:
• Ensure proper attribution of ideas to avoid plagiarism.
• Use quotation marks for direct quotes and provide citations for paraphrased
content.
Practices of Writing Literature Review
Conclusion:
• Writing a literature review is a multifaceted process that involves strategic planning,
thorough research, critical evaluation, and effective communication.
• By adhering to these practices, researchers can create a literature review that not
only contributes to the existing body of knowledge but also serves as a foundation
for further scholarly inquiry.