Preparing your literature review and project plan

Literature review:

Your literature review should allow you to fully understand your area and focus your attention on the hypotheses that should be addressed during your research project i.e. what have previous studies found out about the field and what are the unanswered questions?

Word guide of 1000-5000 words (consult your supervisor)
Should be capable of forming the basis of your general Introduction to your dissertation
our supervisors will provide feedback on your literature review

Aims of a literature review (Source: Student Learning Development, University of Otago hedc.studentlearning@otago.ac.nz)
To show a thorough professional grasp of the area	identifies relevant literature identifies key ideas, schools of thought, debates and problems Shows understanding of main theories in area, and how these are applied Evaluates previous research Helps avoid unintentional replication of another study
To justify your research	Identifies gaps in current knowledge Established the need for your research Helps define focus and boundaries of your research
To justify your approach	Discusses previous approaches to topic Placing your study in context Explains your choice of theoretical framework and methodology
To synthesise literature in the appropriate academic style	Provides a well-structured account that follows a logical progression Provides a well-argued account that supports your research questions Provides a well-written account meticulously referenced

Project Plan:

Follows on from your literature review
May focus on the first experiment rather than the whole project
Discuss required content with your supervisor
Example project plans will be provided on Blackboard

Sections might include:

–Title of project/experiment
–Aims and objectives
–Hypotheses
–Financial details/costs
–Description of the project
–Experimental plan