CHAPTER II:
REVIEW OF
RELATED
LITERATURE AND
STUDIES
A Review of Related Literature
(RRL) is a comprehensive analysis and
synthesis of existing research
studies, academic papers, and other
relevant sources related to a specific
research topic or question.
Related Literature are statements taken from science
books, journals, magazines, newspapers and any
documents from authorized scientists, Science experts or
well-known Science agencies. These statements can
support your study through their concepts, theories,
principles and laws. Footnoting is important on this part.
Related Studies are those researches which may be
local and foreign studies who can attribute to your research
or can support your investigation scientifically. Footnoting
is also important on this part.
Definition: A Review of Related Literature is a
critical evaluation and summary of the current
state of knowledge on a particular topic,
including:
1. Theoretical foundations and conceptual
frameworks
2. Empirical studies and research findings
3. Methodological approaches and limitations
4. Gaps and controversies in existing research
5. Emerging trends and future research
directions
Purpose: The RRL serves several purposes:
1. Contextualizes the research topic within the
broader literature
2. Identifies gaps and areas for further investigation
3. Provides a foundation for research questions and
hypotheses
4. Informs research design, methods, and sampling
strategies
5. Enhances the validity and reliability of research
findings
6. Facilitates the interpretation and generalization of
results
Characteristics: A good RRL should:
• 1. Be comprehensive and up-to-date
• 2. Critically evaluate and synthesize existing
research
• 3. Identify patterns, themes, and relationships
• 4. Discuss methodological strengths and
limitations
• 5. Highlight gaps, controversies, and areas for
further research
• 6. Provide an objective and unbiased
representation of the literature
Types:
• 1. Systematic Review: A comprehensive,
transparent, and reproducible review of all
relevant studies.
• 2. Integrative Review: A comprehensive review
of diverse studies, methodologies, and data.
• 3. Narrative Review: A descriptive review of
selected studies, often with a focus on
qualitative research.
• 4. Conceptual Review: A review of theoretical
frameworks, concepts, and models.
Structure: A typical RRL structure includes:
• I. Introduction
• II. Theoretical Background
• III. Review of Empirical Studies
• IV. Methodological Analysis
• V. Gaps and Controversies
• VI. Emerging Trends and Future Directions
• VII. Conclusion
Tips:
• 1. Use clear and concise language
• 2. Organize and categorize studies logically
• 3. Evaluate studies critically
• 4. Synthesize findings and identify patterns
• 5. Document and reference sources accurately
By conducting a thorough Review of Related
Literature, researchers can build upon existing
knowledge, identify areas for innovation, and contribute
meaningfully to their field of study.