Scholarly vs. non-scholarly: Research literature

• Research literature can be defined as written reports from research studies. Published research articles representing the most common source for research literature. Other sources include dissertations, books, and internet websites.

• Published research articles, for some, are considered the most trustworthy type of research literature. When identifying articles, it is most important to consider the origin of the work. For example, some published research literature articles have the added benefit of being peer reviewed.

• Peer review is a process whereby literature is read and reviewed by others, and the reviewers must deem the work to be worthy before it can be published. Typically, the reviewer does not know who the author(s) is and vice versa, a process known as a double-blind review that reduces undue reviewer bias.

• Another important aspect to consider in regard to the origin of the work is who the author(s) is. In most areas of research, there are existing research literature articles written by authors who have published repeatedly in the area. Knowing who these authors are for a given area that is being investigated can assist researchers in identifying relevant research literature. Read more. 

The concept of a literature review is very much a plural rather than a singular one as there are many literatures a researcher must examine to produce a coherent literature review. For example, by doing qualitative research, the researcher is joining an ongoing debate in some shape or form. The originality of an idea, an approach, or a theoretical reinterpretation adds to existing literature.  Read more.