Theory Integration Discussion

Even though literature review heavily relies on materials for information, researchers should always dictate the structure of the review by organizing them. Concepts must be presented in an orderly manner to provide an easier-to-understand context of a research project. Materials can be organized according to sets of ideas to be discussed to make the structure of the review clear to understand (Paul & Criado, 2020). Compiling a pool of materials is an expensive process that needs considerable time and proper organization to avoid mixing ideas. Organizing the materials ensures that researchers keep track of all the searches they have already done and remind themselves of what materials should be used.

I will use different techniques to come up with themes of categories and subcategories in my literature review. First, I will start with what I already know including the definitions and key concepts within my area of study. I can also consider the historical context, political standpoints, and beliefs that underpin my study area. Researchers need to understand why they must study their research problem and how the problem rates to their study area. Another technique is identifying the key questions raised by other researchers in the same area of study and how the questions can assist them in coming up with my research questions (Snyder, 2019). I also need to consider the research methods and strategies used by other researchers in the same study area. Also, I can create themes using the theoretical perspectives in my study area and the key research findings that have already been conducted by other researchers. It is equally important for me to understand how the literature will assist me in the interpretation of my findings. This can be achieved by identifying the analytical frameworks used by other researchers that will be significant for analyzing my findings. While formulating the themes, I will consider the research gaps and conflicting research findings to provide suitable information.

References

Paul, J., & Criado, A. R. (2020). The art of writing a literature review: What do we know and what do we need to know? International Business Review, 29(4), 101717. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ibusrev.2020.101717

Snyder, H. (2019). Literature review as a research methodology: An overview and guidelines. Journal of business research, 104(1), 333-339. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2019.07.039