For some research projects you might be asked to find a scholarly or peer-reviewed source. What are they?
1. Read the abstract first - it tells you what the article is about and helps you decide if it makes sense for your assignment
2. Next, read the introduction and discussion/conclusion - covers the main argument, hypothesis/ purpose of the article; take notes about how you can use the information
3. Read about the Methods or Methodology. (Skimming is okay.) - jot down the type of research the authors used - survey? study? etc AND if the research is qualitative (describes something) or quantitative (measures something)
4. Read the results and analysis (may be called "conclusion" or "discussion")
5. Skim the author's References or Works Cited List
Scholarly |
Non-scholarly |
|
Content |
Detailed report of original research or experiment, lengthy report of an original application of an arts or humanities concept | Secondary report or discussion may include personal narrative, opinion, anecdotes. |
---|---|---|
Author |
Author's credentials are given, usually a scholar with subject expertise. | Author may or may not be named; often a professional writer; may or may not have subject expertise. |
Audience |
Scholars, researchers, students. | General public; the interested non-specialist. |
Language |
Specialized terminology or jargon of the field; requires prior knowledge. | Vocabulary in general usage; understandable to most readers. |
References/Bibliography |
Required. All quotes and facts can be verified. | Rare. Scanty, if any, information about sources. |
Examples |
Research study, lengthy academic discussion of an arts or humanities concept, research review article | Editorial, news, book/film review, letters, highlights |
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