Reviewing Research Literature

The first reading of research literature is exploratory in nature,that is,the researcher wishes to determine if the investigation really bears some ralation to his thesis topic.In this instance,you must demonstrate a critical and evaluative mind since you have to do some judgment regarding tha profit ability of the material.You have to be alert yo develop this ability.At first try,it may be difficult but through subsequent encounters with the research literature,your task will be easier.

It is suggested that you do some outlining of the salient areas of the investigation on index card,one source to a card.Notetaking must start with a bibliographical entry of the material on the topmost left hand corner of the first indexcard.This bibliography should be accurately written.The next thing you note down are the problems or question of the investigation that you are reviewing.This is followed by thw methology which presents the methods and procedures done in the research.

It is particularly important for you, them to note down specific techniques inasmuch as from this area you get insights into what you will do in your own thesis.It is worthwhile to pay attention to sampling procedures done,the instruments used,and even to statistical tools employed.
The next points that you should review are the result,conclusions,and recommendations.From the results and conclusions,you get to accumulate gaps and inconsistencies among the constructs you are reviewing.Or you meet similarities in some other findings of research investigations.By and large,you formulate a theory based on your massive review of related research literature.