Research & Research Processes

In this module, individuals will learn what research is in the eyes of the lab and different researcher processes such as; constructing a literature review, and annotated bibliography, and how to properly do citations, modules, and conceptual modules.

What is research?

Resources

• Download What is Research.docx

• https://epar.evans.uw.edu/sites/default/files/lit_review_slide_deck_1.3.18_final.pdf

• https://www.jefferson.edu/content/dam/academic/academic-affairs/student-affairs/writing-center/writing-a-literature-review.pdf

• https://www.osfhealthcare.org/media/filer_public/ef/93/ef93c45a-ca89-4259-9d23-3ce2a593aad6/lit__review_sample.pdf

How to construct a literature review?

Here are some resources to help you construct a literature review:

First is a template on how to start writing a literature review. This content was adapted from the Writing Center’s guide, 'Writing a Literature Review,' originally published by Thomas Jefferson University.

Next are a couple of visual aids that will give you tools to find appropriate sources and further explanation on what to look for.

Lastly, here is an example of an excellent literature review conducted by one of our previous lab fellows, AnaLiese Mitchell.

How to construct an annotated bibliography?

An annotated bibliography is a list of sources on a specific topic, where each citation is followed by a brief paragraph called an annotation. The annotation summarizes the source’s main points, evaluates its credibility, and explains how it relates to your research. It is used to help researchers organize sources, demonstrate understanding of the literature, and highlight the relevance or quality of each source for a project or paper.

Purdue OWL serves as an excellent resource to learn how to construct an annotated bibliography

How to properly do citations?

• Citations (APA formats, Purdue Owl, and other resources)

• APA format – American Psychological Association is a set of guidelines for writing academic papers, particularly in the social sciences. Key elements include:

1. Title Page: Includes the paper's title, author's name, and institutional affiliation, with a running head and page number.

2. Abstract: A brief summary of the paper, usually 150-250 words. 

3. Main Body: Organized with headings and subheadings to structure the content.

4. In-Text Citations: Author-date citation style within the text (e.g., (Smith, 2020)).

5. References Page: A list of all sources cited in the paper, formatted with specific rules for different types of sources (e.g., books, journal articles, websites).

6. Formatting: Double-spaced text, 1-inch margins, and a legible font (e.g., 12-pt Times New Roman).

7. Headings: Use of different levels of headings to organize the paper's sections.

• Other Citation resources:

  - Purdue Owl– The Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) provides free writing resources and instructional materials for students, teachers, and professionals. Purdue OWL is widely used for its comprehensive, accessible, and authoritative guidance on a wide range of writing-related topics.

  https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/index.html

  - Writing and Teaching Writing: Guides on writing processes, grammar, mechanics, and style.

  -  Research and Citation: Instructions on conducting research and formatting citations in various styles (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

  - Subject-Specific Writing: Resources tailored to writing in different disciplines, such as business, engineering, and the sciences.

  - Job Search Writing: Tips and examples for writing résumés, cover letters, and other job search documents.

  -  ESL Resources: Support for non-native English speakers to improve their writing skills.