Research Methods and Literature Review

Main Purpose of Research

• Supports system and knowledge building.
• Avoids duplication by identifying existing research.
• Provides background information relevant to the research problem.
• Expands information access and enhances interpretation.

Review of Related Literature (RRL)

• Aims to discover what is known and what remains to be explored regarding the research question.
• Facilitates comparison between current study results and findings from previous research.
• Involves assessment of research addressing specific questions.
• Encompasses a systematic process and is typically authored by experts in the field.

Types of RRL

• Traditional or Narrative RRL

  • Critiques and summarizes existing literature in a conversational format.

• Systematic RRL

  • Employs a defined approach to evaluate literature comprehensively.

• Meta-Analysis

  • Applies statistical methods to analyze and aggregate findings from multiple studies.

• Meta-Synthesis

  • Utilizes non-statistical methods to integrate findings qualitatively.

Characteristics of Good Quality RRL

• Comprehensive: Provides understandable and exhaustive coverage of the topic.
• Up-to-Date: Incorporates timely and relevant research.
• Systematic: Follows an organized approach in literature examination.
• Reproducible: Results and methods can be replicated by others.
• Free from Bias: Maintains objectivity, avoiding subjective influences.
• Well-Written: Organizes information clearly for better comprehension.
• Sum of Its Parts: Breaks down complex information into detailed components.
• Clearly Selected: Focuses on accessible and relevant literature.
• Accurate Reference: Cites appropriate and suitable sources.

Factors Affecting RRL

• Research Background:
  • Complexity of the problem affects the ease of RRL collection; simpler projects yield more resources than complex ones.

Sampling Techniques

• Involves selecting subjects or participants from a larger population.

Approaches to Sampling

• Probability Sampling: Random selection of participants.

  • Types:
    • Random: Equal chance of selection for all.
    • Stratified: Population divided into subgroups for targeted sampling.
    • Cluster: Groups are formed based on similar characteristics.
    • Systematic: Participants chosen based on a numbered list.

• Non-Probability Sampling: Selection based on specific characteristics rather than randomness, targeting unique attributes.