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RTH 720: Research Methods for Recreation, Parks, and Leisure : Literature Review

What Is a Literature Review?

A literature review is a summary and synthesis of scholarly research on a specific topic. It should answer questions such as:
  • What research has been done on the topic?
  • Who are the key researchers and experts in the field?
  • What are the common theories and methodologies?
  • Are there challenges, controversies, and contradictions?
  • Are there gaps in the research that your approach addresses?

The process of reviewing existing research allows you to fine-tune your research question and contextualize your own work. Preparing a literature review is a cyclical process. You may find that the research question you begin with evolves as you learn more about the topic.

Review the Literature

Once you have defined your research question, focus on learning what other scholars have written on the topic.

In order to do a thorough search of the literature on the topic, define the basic criteria:

  • What types of sources should you consider?

    • Databases and journals

    • Books

    • Existing bibliographies that relate to your interest

  • What time period should it cover? Is currency important?

  • Do I know of primary and secondary sources that I can use as a way to find other information?

  • What should I be aware of when looking at popular, trade, and scholarly resources?

 

 

How Will I Know When I'm Done?

How do I know when I am done?

A key indicator for knowing when you are done is running into the same articles and materials. With no new information being uncovered, you are likely exhausting your current search and should modify search terms or search different catalogs or databases. It is also possible that you have reached a point when you can start writing the literature review.