In scholarly publishing processes, the conceptualization of knowledge within a specific domain often comprises a tripartite structure. Initially, primary studies or original researches constitute the foundational layer, wherein researchers conduct and disseminate their findings. Subsequently, secondary reviews of these studies emerge as a way to synthesize and offer novel interpretations, thereby expanding from many other original/ empirical as well as secondary researches. Finally, there exists a stratum of informal discourse encompassing perceptions, conclusions, opinions, and interpretations, collectively shaping the narrative within the field. In this article, we shall discuss about the third catergory which is also called Literature Review.
It is imperative to recognize that despite the prevalence of citations attributing credibility to this third layer of knowledge, its linkage to primary studies and secondary literature reviews may be tenuous at the best. Consequently, when crafting a literature review, scholars must try to go in depth through these layers discerningly, cognizant of the underlying complexities inherent in a better assimilation and interpretation of such academic discourse.
Acknowledging this complexity underscores the necessity for various approaches to literature reviews, contingent upon the analytical framework underpinning the study. The following typologies offer nuanced perspectives on how such reviews may be conceptualized and executed:
- Argumentative Review: This form of review selectively examines literature to challenge existing arguments, assumptions, or philosophical inquiries entrenched within the scholarly academia. Particularly pertinent in domains characterized by inherent value-laden dimensions, such as social sciences, argumentative reviews serve as a legitimate avenue. However, caution is warranted, as they may inadvertently introduce biases when extrapolating summary claims akin to those found in systematic reviews.
- Integrative Review: Positioned as a form of research, integrative reviews meticulously critique and synthesize representative literature on a given topic, culminating in the emergence of novel frameworks and perspectives. Adhering to standards akin to primary research, a well-executed integrative review contributes to the scholarly articles aimed to offer more clarity, rigor, and replicability.
- Historical Review: Rooted in the recognition that few phenomena exist in isolation from historical antecedents, historical reviews meticulously trace the evolution of research within a discipline over time. Commencing with the inception of an issue, concept, theory, or phenomenon within the literature, historical reviews contextualize contemporary research within its historical trajectory, elucidating both its origins and potential future trajectories.
- Methodological Review: Diverging from a focus solely on content, methodological reviews scrutinize the manner in which earlier researches were conducted and analyzed. Offering a comprehensive framework spanning theoretical, substantive, and methodological dimensions, this approach facilitates a nuanced understanding ranging from ontological and epistemological considerations to ethical implications inherent in the research process.
- Theoretical Review: Aimed to serve and elucidate the corpus of theoretical frameworks pertinent to a given issue, concept, or phenomenon. This category of reviews critically assess existing theories, their interrelationships, and their empirical underpinnings. By identifying gaps or inadequacies in existing theoretical frameworks, theoretical reviews propel the other exiting literature forward, fostering the development of novel hypotheses and avenues for investigation.
- Systematic Review: Characterized by a structured inquiry into existing evidence based studies pertaining to a clearly delineated research question. These reviews employ predefined and standardized methodologies to identify, appraise, and synthesize relevant research, often tries to get insights into a particular problem statement within a specific timeline. These reviews start with interrogating causal relationships, contribute to evidence-based practices, offers better insights derived from rigorous analysis of empirical data.
From argumentative to theoretical reviews, each approach offers unique insights into scholarly exploration. Try to be more immersive in preparing your review article while embracing the diversity of perspectives to enrich your research journey.
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