RESEARCH FRAMEWORK

As you begin writing your research project, you must consider the framework that is suitable for your study.
What is a research framework? A research framework illustrates the structure or blueprint of the research plan and
helps the researcher formulate relevant research questions.
The framework consists of the key concepts and assumes relationships of the research project. It is normally used as a
guide for researchers so that they are more focused on the scope of their studies. It can be presented using visual
(diagrams, chart, etc.) and narrative (paragraph stating the concepts and relationships of the study) forms.

Theoretical and Conceptual Framework

The types of research frameworks are classified as the theoretical and conceptual frameworks. A theoretical
framework is commonly used for studies that anchor on time-tested theories that relate the findings of the investigation
to the underpinning relevant theory of knowledge. At the same time, a conceptual framework refers to the actual ideas,
beliefs, and tentative theories that specifically support the study. It is primarily a conception or model of what is out
there that the researcher plans to study.

Similarities of the Theoretical and Conceptual Framework

The following are the similar characteristics of Theoretical and Conceptual Framework:
1. Provide an overall view of the research study;
2. Anchor a theory that supports the study;
3. Guide in developing relevant research questions/objectives;
4. Help justify assumptions/hypothesis;
5. Aid in choosing appropriate methodology;
6. Help in gathering and interpreting data and
7. Guide in identifying possible threats to validity.

A Summary of the Differences of Theoretical and Conceptual

Framework Theoretical ramework Conceptual framework
Content of • Focus on specific theory used already in • Focus on concepts related to your study
Discussion the field.
• Broader in sense • Narrower/focused
Range
• Applicable in different studies • Directly related to a specific study
Theories • Presents one or more theory at a time and • May synthesize one or more theories or concept related
Presented specifically related to the current study to current study
• Usually, theory is established before the • A working concept during the time of study.
Time Frame
study

Guidelines and strategies in choosing and developing a Research Framework

In deciding on what research framework, you are going to use in your study, you have to take into consideration the
following vital information about the theoretical and conceptual framework.

Theoretical framework Conceptual framework

• Revisit the information given by your related literature and • Refer to your research questions or objectives to identify the
identify if there are potential theories or knowledge that may be essential themes in your study. Look for additional theories that
use or anchored to the possible outcome of your study. involve the same principle and see how they relate to one
another. Make a concept map of your conceptual framework,
• With the use of these information, you can now create a plan utilizing the existing theories as a reference. If there are topics
or blueprint for your research study. which are not included in the theories you have chosen and you
know that it is essential to your study, you can include it.
• You also need to comprehend and consider the variables that
will be significant in your study and their relationship with • You have to make a written explanation on the concepts that
another. are being incorporated and their impact to one another after you
have made the first draft of your conceptual framework.
Moreover, you have to revisit your research questions and
conceptual framework if they are aligned.

• It is important to remember that developing a conceptual

framework is a process. This means that as you study more
material and research more theories, it may still be refined or
updated. The research hypothesis may be stated at the end of the
conceptual framework in some situations.
Concept Map
A concept map is a visual representation of information that helps show the relationship between ideas. Concept
maps begin with the main topic and then branch out into sub-topics, reflecting the connection of all the elements in the
study. It can also provide and organize new ideas.
It is composed of different figures such as lines, circles, boxes, and other marks or symbols which represent the
elements of your research. It can take the form of charts, graphic organizers, tables, flowcharts, Venn Diagrams,
timelines, or T-charts. Concept map arranges related ideas in a hierarchy. You start broad, and the sub-topics will get
more and more specific. It also helps you in formulating a specific topic from the general or the main idea with significant
connections of information. In other words, understanding the big picture makes the details more significant and easier
to comprehend.
Concept maps are very useful for researchers and readers who understand better visually. With the proper
connection of lines and linking arrows to shapes and other symbols representing your concepts about the research, the
readers can visualize a comprehensive picture of your study.
However, in the concept map, you are not yet actually researching your study. It is developing or creating your
plan or blueprint so that you will be guided on the flow and direction of your research study. And that includes your
research questions, variables, and methodology. It means that you are just gathering and soliciting ideas on what you
could learn about your chosen topic.
Before creating your conceptual framework, you have to understand first the different variables of your study.
Although these were already discussed in the previous module for the purpose of utilizing it in your framework, an in-
depth concept is a need.
The independent variable is the “presumed cause” of the research problem. It is the reason for any “change”
or difference in a dependent variable. It can be purposely manipulated by the researcher, depending on the focus of the
study. It maybe can cause, influence, or affect the result or outcome of the study. It is also called as the experimental,
treatment, antecedent, or predictor variable. Moreover, it refers to the variable that is stable and unaffected by the other
variables you are trying to measure.
The dependent variable is the “presumed effect” of the research problem. It is usually the problem itself or the
element that is being questioned. This variable is altered as a result of experimental manipulation of the independent
variable or variables. It is also called as the criterion, effect, response, or outcome variable which captures the interest
of the researcher and requires analysis, interpretation, and implication of the findings of the study. The variable that
depends on other factors that are measured and are affected or influenced by the independent variable.
The moderating variable is an independent variable which influences the direction and the strength of the
connection between independent and dependent variables. The independent variable interacts with the moderator
variable, which makes the relationship of the independent and dependent variable stronger or weaker. It alters the effect
that an independent variable has on a dependent variable base on its value. The moderator thus influences the effective
component of the cause-effect relationship between the two variables. This is also called as the interaction effect.
Mediating variable or Intervening variable is an element that exists between the independent to the dependent
variable. A mediator (or mediating) variable is an integral part of the cause-effect relationship and helps us to understand
the effects of the independent variable on the dependent variable. It is a variable that describes the effect and influence
of the relationship between the variables and what is controlling that relationship. This is also called as correlated or
mediator variables
The control variable is a special type of independent variable that can influence the dependent variable. It takes
an active role in quantitative studies. Statistical procedures are used to control this variable. It is useful to integrate the
control variables into your research study, but it is not the main focus.
It has somehow an effect on the dependent variable and an extension of the independent variable. However, if you omit
the control variable from your study, the findings would be less accurate. It is mostly relevant if your study is about to
prove a cause-effect relationship by undertaking statistical analysis.

The Input-Process-Output Model

The Input-Process-Output Model (IPO) is a conceptual paradigm which indicates the inputs, required process,
and the output. This approach is seated on the premise of acquiring essential information by converting inputs into
outputs through the required processing steps in obtaining the result. The IPO Model is also referred to as a functional
model that is usually used in action research where an intervention or solution is necessary to solve the identified
problem.
The Input is usually the independent variable of the study. Meanwhile, the Process is the intervention or solution consist
of the instruments and analyses used to acquire the result. Lastly, the Output is the findings or outcome of the
interventions being made to solve the identified problem.
Common Example of Conceptual Framework
As you read on different research studies, the common conceptual frameworks used of most studies are the independent
and dependent variable model and the input, process, and output model.

A. Independent Variable - Dependent Variable Model (IV-DV)

For example:
Independent Variable Dependent Variable

Hours of Study Academic Performance

Figure 1. The schematic diagram of the Independent and Dependent Variables of the Study.

This conceptual framework shows the independent and dependent variables of the study. It is presumed that the greater
number of hours a student prepares for the exam, the higher would be the expected academic performance.
B. The Input – Process - Output Model (IPO)
For example:
Input Process Output
Socio-demographic 1.Profiling
Profile 2.Survey
1.Age Questionnaire
2.Sex Proposed
3.Data Analysis
Intervention
3.Marital Status
Program
Food Safety Profile
1.Knowledge
2.Attitude
3.Practices
Figure 2. The schematic diagram of the Input, Process, and Output Approach of the Study

This conceptual framework shows the input, process, and output approach of the study. The input is the independent variable,
which includes the socio-demographic and food safety profile of the respondents. The process includes the tools and analyses in
gathering the data, while the output is the outcome based on the results of the study.
Other examples:
Research Title: Effect of Mentoring Program on Academic Performance among Senior High School Students

Conceptual Paradigm:

Independent Variable Dependent Variable

Effect of Mentoring Program Academic Performance

In this conceptual framework, it is expected that the students who underwent the mentoring program will have better
academic performance than those who did not.

Research Title: Awareness on the Safety Precaution against COVID 19 among the Senior Citizens who are living in
the Home Care Facilities: Basis for a Proposed Intervention Program

Conceptual Paradigm:
Input Process Output
Socio-demographic Profile
1.Age
2.Sex 1. Profiling
3.Marital Status
2. Survey Tool Proposed
3. Data Gathering Intervention
4.Educational Attainment
4. Data Analysis and
Safety Precaution Awareness AgainstCOVID19
Interpretation
1.Causes
2.Management
3.Prevention

In this conceptual framework, the input is the baseline information about the respondents. Necessary steps and procedures are to be
implemented to obtain the vital data as a result and findings of the research. Furthermore, these findings will be the basis for a
proposed intervention program as the output of the study.
DEFINITION OF TERMS

Usually, in writing a research paper, the definition of terms is included. It helps in simplifying some
of the technical terms which are vital in the understanding of the research project. Although this part of the
paper is optional, it is advantageous for the reader to include this to prevent the ambiguous meaning of terms
that might otherwise be interpreted in different ways, causing confusion. It can also enhance comprehension
of important key terms.
Definition of Terms is also called as Operational Definition of Variables (ODV). The word operational
refers to “how the word/term was used in the study. At the same time, the variables are the elements essential
to the study.
There are two ways in defining the terms, the conceptual and operational definition. The conceptual
definition is the meaning of the term that is based on how it is defined in the dictionary or encyclopedia.
Operational definition, on the other hand, is the meaning of the term based on how it was used in the study.
Generally, there are two cases in which important terms need to be defined; first, if the term is not common
or widely known, and second, if the term has a specific or unique meaning in the context of the study.

Benefits of Having Definition of Terms

1. It is a useful place to include technical terms in the topic of the research questions.
2. It can clarify the definition of term, especially if it has a different meaning. Define the term according to
how it was used in the study.
3. It makes it easier to revisit or check the meaning of a term instead of trying to locate it through the paper.
4. Helps to ensure that the reader can understand the technical terminologies and jargons while reading the
paper.

Guidelines on How to Write the Definition of Terms

1. Write a brief introductory statement. It must shortly describe the content of the definition of terms.
2. List/write the words/terms (which are technical) that would be included (make sure that the variables and
key terms found in the title are included).
3. The terms should be arranged alphabetically.
4. Indention should be applied to each term.
5. The term should be followed with a period.
6. It can be underlined or not.
7. It can be bold and italic or not.
8. It does not have to be lengthy (direct to the point).
9. Acronym/initials should be defined clearly. Complete name should be written first, followed by the
acronym/initials in open-close parenthesis, then the definition/meaning.
10. Do not overflow with technical terms (only those relevant and significant to the study).
11. Keep the definition brief and basic. You will elaborate on it more in the body of your paper.

Note: Refer also to your institutional format (some institutions have different formats).

Examples of Writing the Definition of Terms

1. Conceptual definition

Face to face. It is when the people involved are being close together and looking directly at each other
(https://bit.ly/2L2IuML).

Module. It is any in a series of standardized units used together, such as an educational unit that covers
a single subject or topic (https://bit.ly/380jv5X).

Online. It is controlled by or connected to another computer or network (https://bit.ly/3aUatJA).

2. Operational definition

Face to face. This refers to one of the modalities used in learning delivery in which the teacher and
students should be in the same place or setting, such as the classroom.

Module. Teaching modules are guides of the topics and lessons of a specific subject given to students
under the modular method. It is also an alternative distance learning delivery in which students are required
to read and answer the activities specified in the module.

Online. It refers to another form of distance learning wherein the teacher and students will have their
lessons using internet connectivity.

RESEARCH HYPOTHESIS

When you are finished identifying your statement of the problem or research questions/objectives, you
may now start formulating the hypothesis of your study. What is hypothesis?
A Hypothesis is a tentative statement about the relationship between two or more variables. It is a
specific and testable prediction on what you expect to happen with the variables in your study. Usually, it
proposes a possible relationship between the independent variable (what the researcher changes) and the
dependent variable (what the research measures). It is also described as an “educated guess” of what possibly
the result would be of your research, which should be supported on existing theories and knowledge.
Furthermore, the hypothesis states a tentative answer to your research question that can be tested by further
investigation in which you can support or refute it through scientific research methods such as data collection
and statistical analysis. It is the central concept of any investigation that converts research questions into
predictions and incorporates elements such as variables, population, and the relationship between factors.
As a researcher, you must determine whether your hypothesis is accepted or not based on the findings
and outcome of your research study. Not all studies have a hypothesis while some studies have several
hypotheses.

Types of Research Hypothesis

1. Simple Hypothesis
A simple hypothesis is a prediction of the relationship between two variables, the independent variable
and the dependent variable. It shows a connection between one independent variable and a single dependent
variable (https://bit.ly/37UCE9q).
Ex: The higher the poverty rate in society (one independent variable), the higher the number
would be the out of school youth (one dependent variable).

2. Complex hypothesis
The complex hypothesis reflects the relationship between the independent variable and the dependent
variable. It expresses a connection between two or more independent variables and two or more dependent
variables (https://bit.ly/37UCE9q).
Ex: Eating more vegetables and fresh fruits (independent variables) leads to boost immune system
and enhance blood circulation and digestion (dependent variables).

3. Empirical Hypothesis
An empirical hypothesis is also called as the “working hypothesis.” It is presumed to explain certain
facts and relationships of phenomena. It comes to life when a theory is being put to the test, using observation
and experiment. From the name itself “working,” it would mean that it can be changed or replace anytime as
soon as it is no longer supported or accepted base on the observation and experimentation being done. It is
going through some trial and error and perhaps changing around those independent variables
(https://bit.ly/37UCE9q).
Ex: Plants watered everyday grow faster than plants watered once a week. (Here, trial and error
are leading to a series of findings).
4. Logical hypothesis
Logical hypothesis expresses explanation with limited evidence that can be verified logically. It
reflects a relationship of the variables which are anchored based on logical phenomena. Sometimes, a logical
hypothesis can be turned into an empirical hypothesis in which you have to test your theories and postulates
(https://bit.ly/37UCE9q).
Ex: Tomato plants bear fruit faster in Earth than in Moon. (Until we are can test the soil and
plant growth in Moon's ground, the evidence for this claim will be limited, and the hypothesis will only
remain logical).

5. Statistical hypothesis
A statistical hypothesis is an analysis of a portion of a population. It can be verified statistically. The
variables in a statistical hypothesis can be transformed into quantifiable sub-variable to assess it statistically
(https://bit.ly/37UCE9q).
Ex: If your research is about the psychosocial development of K-3 pupils of the private and
public schools in the city, you would want to examine every single K-3 pupil in the city. It is not practical.
Therefore, you would conduct your research using a statistical hypothesis or a sample of the K-3 pupil
population.

6. Null hypothesis
The null hypothesis is denoted with the symbol Ho It exists when you consider that there is no
relationship between the independent and dependent variables or that there is an insufficient amount of
information to claim a scientific hypothesis (McLeod, 2020).
Ex: There is no significant change in my health, whether I exercise every day or not.

7. Alternative hypothesis
An alternative hypothesis is denoted with the symbol (Ha). It is an alternate statement expressed to be
tested in order to generate the desired output when the empirical or working hypothesis is not accepted. In an
attempt to disprove a null hypothesis, you tend to seek an alternative hypothesis (McLeod, 2020).
Ex: My health improves during the times when I sleep 8 hours a day than sleeping for 4 hours
only.

A Hypothesis can be classified as Directional and Non-directional Hypothesis

Directional Hypothesis
The directional hypothesis relates the relationship between the variables and can also predict its nature.
It illustrates the direct association of the impact of the independent variable with the dependent variable,
whether it is positively or negatively affected. The direction of the statement should be clear and justified
according to the findings of the study. Since the hypothesis is gearing to one specific direction it is investigated
through a one-tailed test (McLeod, 2020).
Ex: Students who are eating nutritious food have higher grades than students not having a proper meal.
(This shows that there is an effect between the grades and nutritious food and the direction of effect is
clear that the students got a higher grade).

Non-directional Hypothesis
A non-directional hypothesis is used when there is no principle involved. It is a premise that a
relationship exists between two variables. However, the direction of the effect is not specifically determined.
It is a statement that reflects the association of the independent variable to the dependent variable without
predicting the exact nature of the direction of the relationship. This relationship is not specified as negative or
positive. The hypothesis, in this case, is investigated through a two-tailed test (McLeod, 2020).
Ex: There is a significant difference in the average grades between those students that have proper
nutritious meal and those that do not have proper meals. (This depicts that there is an effect between
the average grades and nutritious food, but it does not reflect the direction of the effect whether it is
positively or negatively affected).
Guidelines in Formulating Hypothesis
These guidelines must be observed in formulating your hypothesis.

1. Before writing your specific hypothesis, spend more time researching about the topic you are interested in.
Focus on information and previous studies related to your topic.

2. Your independent variable and dependent variable must be included in your hypothesis.

3. The relationship of your variables must be reflected in your hypothesis. Will your independent variable
affect your dependent variable?

4. Your hypothesis should be simple and specific as possible. If your hypothesis is vague and complicated, it
would be difficult to find the answer to your question.

5. Your hypothesis should be concise and comprises clear and simple language. Make it short and simple for
it to be easily understood and avoid any misconceptions or misunderstandings.

6. Your hypothesis should be testable without violating ethical standards. It means that it could be investigated
and measured through a scientific method such as statistical analysis and data interpretation.

7. Your hypothesis must be falsifiable. It means that your hypothesis can be proven wrong through
experiments or empirical data. There are no absolute answers to research questions, but there is a possibility
of validating the hypotheses to be true beyond a reasonable doubt.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

After you have selected your research topic, you have to spend more time for your review of related
literature. As a researcher, you are promoting knowledge. The knowledge created by other previous studies is
essential because it can be a baseline or reference for your research study as the related literature.
Review of related literature is a compilation of studies related to a specific area of research (Fraenkel
& Wallen, 2020). It evaluates, classifies and summarizes all the relevant previous studies conducted on a
specified topic. It is also designed to justify your research by exposing the gaps of the previous studies. It is
vital that your literature review is centralized. Thus, you should choose studies that are focused to your topic
rather than collecting a broader scope of studies which are already not relevant to your research.
Moreover, literature review is an essential component of research. It forms a "picture" for the reader,
providing a support and full comprehension of the developments in the field. This picture tells the reader that
you have acknowledged, considered and adapted previous related significant works in the field into your
research.
Literature review plays a significant impact in the discussion of the results and findings. The discussion
of results and findings should focus on your research rather than those of the other previous research. Hence,
the literature review should be used only in the discussion as support, evidence, and further explanation for
your study. These are the three (3) ways of using literature review in the discussion of your study: a) providing
context as a foundation to develop your ideas, b) comparing your findings from other previous related studies,
and c) stating what contribution your study has made in the field.
However, there are also three (3) common errors that are usually made when including literature
reviews in the discussion of the study. First, there are wide range of studies being included in which most of
them are not anymore relevant to your specific topic under investigation. Second, Related article mentioning
the original article is cited rather than citing the original article itself. Lastly, previous work has been cited by
the researcher based only on the abstracts and without even reading the entire research.
Purpose of a Literature Review
The review of related literature is anchored on the following purposes.
1. To discover the connection of your research to the existing body of knowledge and to the real-life situations.
2. To identify more theories or concepts as the foundation of your research study and to learn from them.
3. To determine the relationship of your research with previous research studies to prevent duplication and to
acknowledge other researchers.
4. To acquire knowledge on the accuracy and significance of your research questions.
5. To acquaint yourself with the technical terminologies relevant to your study.
6. To determine possible gaps, conflicts, and open questions left from other research which might help you in
formulating and justifying your research ideas.
7. To clarify misconceptions on previous research and help refocus, polish, and contribute to the development
of the body of knowledge.

Structure of Literature Review

This is how you are going to structure your review of related literature. The main goal for doing this
is to make the reader understand easily the different studies and how they are relevant to your study.

1. Introduction
The introduction somehow presents the fundamental idea of the particular study of the literature review.

2. Main Body
The main body consists of the organized discussion of sources. This is where you summarize and synthesize
your literature review and reflect how they related to your study.

3. Conclusions/Recommendations
Conclusion and recommendation emphasize what you have learned from reviewing the literature and where
your study leads to.

Types of Literature Review

These are the different types of literature review according to Nueman (2011). Following the type of
literature review depends on how you organize and present your review of related studies.

1. Context review
From the name itself, context review is primarily focused on the content or contextual aspect of
research. Usually, it is a type of review in which the researcher relates his or her study to a larger body of
knowledge. It presents the current research by merging it into a wider framework and determine its
contribution and impact to the specific field of study.

2. Historical review
Historical review is a specialized type of literature review in which the researcher organizes the related
research according to the period of time it was conducted. Historical literature review focuses on probing
research in a specified field throughout a chronological order, which usually starts from the oldest period of
time going to the most recent studies. The goal of this type of research is to gain knowledge on the
advancement of technology and to identify developments on certain areas, which progress through time. It can
be integrated with a theoretical or methodological review to illustrate how a concept, theory, or research
method developed through time.

3. Integrative review
Integrative review is a common type of literature review in which the researcher introduces and
summarizes the recent knowledge of the study. It emphasizes the agreements and disagreements of knowledge
among various previous research. It also considers reviews, critiques, and synthesizes representative literature
in an integrated way in order to generate new structure and viewpoint on the topic. This is the most common
form of literature review in the social sciences. This review is usually merged with a context review.
4. Methodological review
Methodological review is a specialized type of literature review in which the researcher gathers,
compares and contrasts other studies to the current research. It basically summarizes and evaluates the
strengths and gaps in methodological aspects of various studies and illustrates the effects of different
methodologies (research designs, samples, process) to different outcomes. This approach also emphasizes
ethical issues when necessary, which you should consider and be conscious of as you go through your current
research.

5. Self-study review
Self-study review is a literature review in which the researcher demonstrates his or her understanding
of a specific body of knowledge. It contains existing proof associated to a clearly stated research questions
and uses standardized methods to determine and evaluate relevant research. However, it can also produce
problems of prejudice especially when it is used to summarize claims or statements linking his or her findings
to a system of knowledge. Typically, it is a practice in the educational program or course requirement.

6. Theoretical review
Theoretical review is a literature review in which the researcher introduces several theories or concepts
that are focused on a specific topic. It is particular on the theories and concepts being highlighted on other
researches and compares them to the current study basing on its framework, hypothesis, consistency, and
justification. The theoretical literature review aids in establishing the theories already existed, the relationships
of theories among various studies, the degree of its investigation, and the development of new hypotheses.

Type of Sources for a Literature Review

In doing a literature review, researchers must be acquainted with the three (3) basic types of sources
which are the general references, primary and secondary sources. General references are sources in which a
researcher refers to tract down other sources. Primary sources are publications in which a researcher accounts
the findings of his or her investigations. Most primary sources are found in journal articles. Secondary sources
are publications in which a researcher considers the work of others (Fraenkel & Wallen, 2020).

Where can you find the review of related literature?

As a researcher, you can find information about the research studies in numerous formats such as
books, scholarly journal articles, dissertations, government documents, policy reports, and periodicals. Most
researchers are also presenting their findings during meetings, congress, and conventions of professional
societies and organizations. According to Nueman (2011), you can find related literature in:

1. Books
Books convey many forms of information. The needed information here is from the books containing
a collection of research materials and articles. You can find citation information on them such as the title,
author, date, and publisher in the catalog system.

2. Scholarly Journals
Scholarly journals may also be referred to as academic journals or peer-reviewed journals. They are
filled with peer-reviewed information of research. Articles are written by a scholar in the field and the
researcher is always identified. List of the sources of the information like footnotes, endnotes, and
bibliography is always included. Typically, they contain an advanced terminology since the researcher uses
technical language in their field of study. The researcher assumes that the reader has a background and basic
understanding in the field of research.

3. Dissertations
Dissertation is a final requirement for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in which the student
or researcher has to complete a work of original research. Some dissertations are eventually published as books
or articles which consider their findings and contribution to the academic discipline. Since dissertations are
original research, they can be a source of valuable information.
4. Government Documents
Most of the government agencies around the world support research undertakings and publish the
findings of the study. Government documents are usually kept at the government and some school libraries.
These documents are rarely found in the catalog system. Assistance from the librarian is needed for you to be
able to locate these documents since it is considered as specialized publications.

5. Policy Reports and Presented Papers

Policy reports are also a source of information in literature review. Policy papers are not like the typical
research papers. Usually, they are discussed to non-academic readers. They may initiate by identifying an
issue or phenomenon that usually claim an answer and they are focused on being persuasive. Moreover, policy
papers are written proficiently and most of the readers do not want to read a book due to limited time.
Generally, they are supplemented by policy briefs which summarize the papers.

6. Periodicals
Periodicals are findings of the study which can be seen in newspapers, in popular magazines, on
television or radio broadcasts, and in Internet news summaries. They are the chosen edited summaries done
by journalists for the general readers. They are deficient in numerous vital details that are required to critically
evaluate the study. Therefore, it is essential to supplement these pieces of information with other sources.

Steps in Writing Literature Review

Transcribed from the video presentation: https://bit.ly/3b12Q4b

1. Find/Search for the Relevant Literature

There are many ways on how to find relevant research studies. You may use the following:
a. Search engines to facilitate your information inquiry. Make sure that they are reliable.
b. University online library
c. Snowballing
d. Related dissertations

2. Log, Catalogue and Synthesize

After searching and gathering the different relevant studies, you need to arrange them in order for you to
organize them easily.
a. Log the reference information. You may use reference management software.
b. Catalogue all relevant articles. You may use excel so that it will be organize and systematic. You
can make your own template so that you will be efficient.
c. Digest and synthesize. Organize the different ideas from different sources. Arrange them according
to the criteria that you made in your excel template. This would make the connections of the different studies
easier to identify.

3. Outlining and Writing Up

In-depth planning and enough time should be given importance during this period since you will need to
concentrate and have focus in writing up your paper.
a. Draw up your outline. You need to make an outline first for the structuring of your literature review.
Thorough reading and understanding should be done for you to be able to plan and structure the ideas from
your different sources. You can use the different approaches like chronological, thematic, theoretical, etc.
b. Write it up. After formulating the outline, you can now begin writing your first draft. It is expected
that your first draft is still rough. Your second draft involves tightening up and improving the flow. There
would be several drafts needed for your paper to be polished.
c. Recap. When you are finish with your paper, have it read by others who are qualified (expert in the
field) for further improvements. Comprehend and incorporate their corrections and suggestions for the
betterment of your study. It is so much better if there will be more qualified people that can proof-read your
paper.
In-text Citation and Referencing Styles
Source: https://bit.ly/3pyM8gb

Citation is a reference to a literature being used in your study. It is a way of giving acknowledgement
to the authors whom you have referred their intellectual works and creativity as a support or foundation of
your research. Typically, citations include author’s name, date, publisher information, journal information
and/or DOI (Digital Objective Identifier) if present (Literature Review: Citation Styles, nd).
From the name itself, an in-text citation is a reference made within the body of text in the paper. It
leads the reader to a source where a particular information has been taken of. An in-text citation should be
reflected when you refer, paraphrase, summarize, or quote from another author. A corresponding reference
list must be provided at the end of the study as references or bibliography.
A reference typically includes only the sources that you have mentioned or cited in-text in your paper,
while a bibliography is generally a list of all the sources you use to generate your ideas about your research
even if you have not mentioned or cited them in your paper.
There are different citing and referencing styles that are being used depending on the specific
requirements of different filed of disciplines. Please refer to your Practical Research 1 (PR1)