It can be a simple SUMMARY of the sources on a topic, but it usually has an organizational pattern and combines both summary and synthesis.
KEY POINTS of a lit review:
- tell your instructor WHAT the research says (the theory)
- tell your instructor HOW the research was carried out (the methodology)
- tell your instructor WHAT pieces (books or articles) may contribute greatly to the area of research
Think Piece #5 Assignment:
"Communication 103 is an introductory course designed to give you an overview of a broad range of topics relevant to interpersonal communication. Knowing that the library can help you advance your knowledge by providing you with topic-specific, in-depth journal articles and books, engage in a library search and provide an overview of five books and journal articles you would like to read in the future. Please include at minimum one book and one journal article on your list. Make sure each is centered on interpersonal communication. What about these articles and books interest you?"
© 2006, Kate Pitcher