Summary: Drawing on your synthesis of the existing research literature on your chosen topic, you are supposed to identify a research question based on a ‘gap’ in the literature for a research problem...

Drawing on your synthesis of the existing research literature on your chosen topic, you are supposed to identify a research question based on a ‘gap’ in the literature for a research problem that needs attention. Your review should be shaped by your argument and should seek to establish your theoretical orientation, along with your methodological choices. Your review needs to conclude with what you have demonstrated as a ‘need for research’ in the area.

This literature review needs to be organised with sub-headers in a meaningful manner based on your topic. Language used in a literature review is often evaluative and demonstrates your perspectives of the literature in relation to your question. Your ‘voice’ or your perspective, position or standpoint, should be clearly identifiable in the literature review.

It is important that, firstly, your theoretical position is clearly and strongly stated and that your critical evaluations are an integral part of this. Secondly, it important that your language indicates your own or other writers’ attitudes to the question or issue. The literature review always ends with a research question.

You may follow the outline below;

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  Title of Literature Review:
  

In not more than 20 words state the title of your Literature Review.

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  Introduction:
  

Provide an overview of literature review. Indicate the objectives of the literature review.

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  Literature Review:
  

Use relevant headings and sub-headings to organise your literature review

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  Conclusion:
  

Your conclusion should provide a summary of the literature and show the gaps in the literature