Introduction
According to leading architectural design professor Mike Kroelinger, the literature review:
- provides the context in which a research study relates to the knowledge in the subject field.
- through its development and compilation also gives the researcher the needed knowledge base to develop effectively the research problem and implement the research project.
To achieve these goals, the George Mason University Writing Center notes that a literature review:
- defines and clarifies the issue(s) or problem(s) specified
- summarizes previous investigations in order to inform the reader of the state of current research
- identifies relations, contradictions, gaps, and inconsistencies in the literature,
- and suggests the next step or steps in solving the problem
As its sources, the literature review, "... surveys scholarly articles, books and other sources (e.g. dissertations, conference proceedings) relevant to a particular issue, area of research, or theory, providing a description, summary, and critical evaluation of each work." (University of Santa Cruz University Library)
Purpose
When researchers move into new fields, as you are doing this semester, a comprehensive literature review forms a key first priority. Through such a review researchers orient themsleves to the major theories and debates in the new field and identify possible areas where they may contribute original work to expand understanding and improve practice.
In addition, a thorough literature review will prepare you for innovative thinking and creative problem-solving as you plan and conduct your research study and present a plan for action based on your research.