Research methodology is a discussion of the methods used in your research. It includes the reason behind the methods used in the research, the theoretical concepts informing the selection of the methods, and a literature review about the methods other scholars have used when studying the topic. Locate information by searching the name of the method or theoretical framework (survey, interviews, positivism, hermeneutics, etc).
One of the premier databases for all things Methodology can be found below. Sage Research Methods and Cases Online!
A literature review is an analysis of the ongoing conversation on a topic, question, or issue. A strong literature review organizes existing contributions to a conversation into categories or "threads." For each category or thread, a literature review might highlight particularly interesting books or articles, then briefly cite or mention other instances.
Some resources may make the issue of finding some of those wider trends in the wider literature easier to identify. Below, are a series of databases and resources that may make this process less taxing, and include the references/citations to better find that more actionable range of notable research!
Literature Reviews are complicated by a shifting range of expectations. Different levels of academic endeavor may require more, or less, from a review of the available literature. When in doubt, ask your Instructors and ask your Librarians!
Ask a Librarian | Hours & Directions | Mason Libraries Home
Copyright © George Mason University