Literature Review

Sources of Literature There are various sources of literature which may be used for this purpose. Examples of these are:

➢ Books and textbooks material;
➢ Periodicals;
➢ Abstracts;
➢ Encyclopaedias;
➢ Handbooks and Guides;
➢ Special Dictionaries;
➢ Dissertations and Theses;
➢ The Internet.

4.1 Primary Vs Secondary Sources

Primary Sources: These are immediate, first-hand accounts or original information directly related to your research topic. Examples include diaries, speeches, original manuscripts, articles and photographs. Primary sources provide direct evidence about the people, events, or phenomena being studied. They are essential for making new discoveries, providing credible evidence, and offering authoritative information for your arguments.

Secondary Sources: These sources are one step removed from primary sources and include works that describe, interpret, analyse, or evaluate information from primary sources. Examples of secondary sources are books, documentaries, and critical analyses. Secondary sources add a layer of interpretation and analysis to the information found in primary sources. They are valuable for gaining a comprehensive overview of your topic, understanding how other researchers have approached it, and supporting or contrasting your arguments with existing research

The Functions of Literature 

There are four functions of review of literature:

1. The conceptual frame of reference for the contemplated research.
2. An understanding of the status of research in problem area.
3. Clues to the research approach, method, instrumentation, and data analysis.
4. Probability of success and significance of findings.