Assignment: Analysis and Critique of Literature Review
Locate a dissertation related to your topic and research question
THE TOPIC QUESTION WILL BE MESSAGED INDIVIDUALLY
Review the literature review section (Chapter 2 of the dissertation).
Write a 4-5 page critique of the literature review using these kinds of guiding ideas to think about the review:
1) How was the literature related to the research problem?
2) What was the theoretical or conceptual framework, and how was it used to frame the literature?
3) Was the literature synthesized clearly?
4) How was the chapter organized? What was the organizational scheme--that is, what themes or chronology was used? How was it made apparent?
Begin your paper with an introductory paragraph where you state the name (date) of the dissertation researcher [not the title of the dissertation, which belongs in the References], your purpose for the analysis of this literature review critique and your organizational map for how you intend to structure this critique around the sub headings below. [Note the 5 topic areas/sub headings of the Body of your paper are similar to, but not the same as those for an article critique, since there are no methodology, data analysis, and implications sections in a lit review]:
Organize your literature review paper using the following five level 2 sub-headings:
1]Research question/problem
2]Theoretical/conceptual foundation
3]Relevance of literature to research question
4]Synthesis of literature
5]Discussion/Recommendations
You will likely need to look briefly at Chapter 1 of the dissertation to get a clear sense of the author's purpose and research question, before focusing your efforts on Chapter 2. The remaining 4 parts should be found in Chapter 2. Be sure you also look for the themes the writer has used. These should be discussed where they make the most sense in your analysis, possibly part 4.
Write from a scholarly perspective, using APA style for expression of ideas and attribution of sources. Remember: Watch for appropriate verb tenses-past tense when discussing completed research; avoid using passive verbs; check for subject-verb and subject pronoun agreement. Editing and proofreading are mandatory prior to your submission.
All written assignments and responses should follow APA rules for attributing sources.