The next step is to try out a few literature searches. These are also known as Scoping searches.
They are not comprehensive searches but you are looking to see if your topic area is reviewable.
For example, the scoping search results can quickly identify:
Remember you need enough research to identify, critically appraise and synthesise information for your review.
Can you widen the scope of your topic or limit your topic? Think about interventions, outcomes etc.
Try doing scoping searches on:
Links to Edinburgh Napier University subscriptions and collections. Limit search to Peer Reviewed Journals.
extensive database but not always reliable. Set up to show library resources from Edinburgh Napier University.
During your scoping searches, it might be worth considering if you'd like to look at Qualitative, Quantitative or mixed methods research for your review.
| Qualitative | Quantitative | Mixed Methods | |
| Focus | non-numerical data | numerical data | Combines both qualitative and quantitative approaches. |
| Data Types |
Interviews, focus groups, observations, open-ended survey responses |
Surveys with closed questions, experiments, statistical datasets. | To gain a more comprehensive understanding by integrating numerical trends with personal insights. |
| Goal | Understand meanings, experiences, and perspectives. | Test hypotheses, measure variables, identify patterns. |
Designs:
|
| Analysis | Thematic analysis, coding, narrative analysis. | Statistical tests (e.g., regression). | |
| Example | Studying how students feel about online learning through interviews. | Measuring student performance based on hours spent studying. | Surveying students on study habits (quantitative) and then interviewing them to explore their motivations (qualitative). |