In this module, you will learn how to create a comprehensive and well-structured literature/information review, which is a critical component of your thesis or applied project in organizational development and learning. The literature/information review provides a foundation for your research/project by surveying existing knowledge, identifying gaps, and situating your study/project within the broader academic and practical context.

Module Objectives:

1. Understand the Purpose of a Literature/information Review:

– Learn about the essential functions of a literature review, including summarizing existing research, identifying gaps, and providing a context for your study.

2. Conduct a Comprehensive Literature Search:

– Develop strategies for conducting a thorough literature search using academic databases, journals, books, and other credible sources. Learn how to identify and select relevant literature.

3. Evaluate and Synthesize Sources:

– Understand how to critically evaluate sources for relevance, credibility, and quality. Learn techniques for synthesizing information from multiple sources to provide a cohesive overview of the existing research.

4. Organize the Literature Review:

– Explore different ways to structure your literature review, such as thematically, chronologically, or methodologically. Understand how to create a logical flow that guides the reader through the existing research.

5. Identify Gaps and Justify Your Research:

– Learn how to identify gaps in the existing literature and justify the need for your study. Understand how to articulate how your research will contribute to filling these gaps.

6. Write Clearly and Coherently:

– Develop your academic writing skills to ensure that your literature review is clear, coherent, and well-argued. Learn how to use transitions and signposting to guide the reader.

By the end of this module, you will have a comprehensive and well-structured literature/information review that effectively supports your thesis or applied project. You will be equipped with the skills to conduct a thorough literature search, critically evaluate and synthesize sources, and write a clear and compelling review.

Module 5 To Do List

• Read: Writing a successful thesis, Chapter 7
• Read: Master your thesis, Chapter 5
• Submit
• Applied Project Students: Information Review; Comprehensive Exam Question 2
• Module 5 Discussion
• Thesis Students: Literature Review

• I have uploaded the last assignment and the template
• This is the exam question:
• Select a need/problem in an organizational setting and use previous research and authoritative sources to address the following: what theories/frameworks/concepts are foundational in understanding the problem; what are the current and/or historical causes of the need/problem; what themes emerge from the literature that are relevant to the need/problem; how can these themes be applied in your understanding of the problem and approach to addressing the problem. Your response should be supported by an extensive review of literature and should include a minimum of 10 authoritative sources.