I suggest starting
to write your dissertation with Chapter 2, the literature review. How do you
start? How do you do library searches and not be overwhelmed with distantly
related articles? The first step is doing the outline of your Chapter 2,
including your variables. Then you are ready to begin the library search. Pick
a variable and get started!
If you are in
psychology, you may want to start your search in the psychology databases;
however, be sure you check related ones too (e.g., Thoreau, Sage, CINAHL,
Medline, ERIC). Start with getting some general background on your topic. Say
you are interested in "resilience" in older adults; begin with a
search of resilience, review, and older adults (you will also need to try
elderly and aging). This search will bring up literature reviews on the topic.
Let us say there are three reviews, which look to fit your interests. Read
those. These articles will have references, which relate to your specific
interests, look those up. In addition, take note of the keywords lists with
each of your articles; they may offer suggestions you had not considered.
When you find
mention of theories, make a note of authors related to the theories. Look up
those authors, you may find additional information on your topic. Keep in mind
you are expected to understand the history of the theories. It is very
important you are keeping a research journal as you search. You need to keep
track of your search terms and databases used, as these will be included in
Chapter 2. You should also keep notes as you go, perhaps marking articles,
which you want to be sure to read carefully.
Next time we will consider alternative sources for articles.
Do you have an issue or a question that you would like me to discuss in a
future post? Would you like to be a guest writer? Send me your ideas! leann.stadtlander@waldenu.edu
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