How can you effectively compare and contrast secondary research studies?

1 Identify your research question

Before you start searching for secondary research studies, you need to have a clear and specific research question that guides your inquiry. Your research question should be based on your research purpose, scope, and objectives, and should be answerable with existing data. Your research question will help you narrow down your search criteria and select the most relevant secondary research studies for your topic.

2 Evaluate the source and the author

In order to assess the trustworthiness and credibility of a secondary research study, it is important to evaluate the source and author. Consider who produced the study, their credentials and qualifications, their affiliation and motivation, as well as when the study was created. Additionally, check if the study is peer-reviewed or published in a reputable journal or platform. Lastly, make sure the study cites its sources and provides references. By asking these questions, you can gain insight into the reliability of the study.

3 Analyze the methodology and the data

The methodology and the data of a secondary research study are essential for understanding the study's conduct and results. To determine their validity, reliability, and accuracy, analyze the methodology and the data of each study. Consider the research design and data collection method, sample size and sampling technique, data analysis and presentation, limitations and assumptions, findings and conclusions supported by the data and literature, as well as the consistency and generalizability of the results.

4 Compare and contrast the findings and the implications

When doing secondary research, it's important to compare and contrast the findings and implications of different studies in order to answer your research question and draw your own conclusions. To do this, ask yourself how the findings and implications of each study relate to your research question and objectives, how they agree or disagree with each other and with the existing literature, how they contribute to your knowledge of the topic, and how they inform your own research decisions and actions.

5 Synthesize and summarize the key points

The final step of comparing and contrasting secondary research studies is to synthesize and summarize the key points that emerge from your analysis. To do this effectively, it’s helpful to use a table, chart, or diagram to organize and visualize the key points of different studies. Additionally, you can use transitional words and phrases to show the relationships and connections between different studies. Furthermore, you can use direct quotes, paraphrases, or summaries to present the key points of different studies. And don’t forget to include proper citations and references to acknowledge the sources of different studies. Finally, you should use your own words and voice to express your own interpretation and evaluation of different studies.