Literature review methods provide a structured approach to locating, evaluating, and synthesizing existing research. In educational research, selecting an appropriate method helps establish a reliable foundation for examining theories, identifying evidence, and defining meaningful research gaps.
Different approaches, including systematic, scoping, narrative, and integrative reviews, serve distinct purposes. Understanding their characteristics enables researchers to align the review process with their research questions, available evidence, and overall study objectives.
Literature review methods are structured approaches for locating, evaluating, and synthesising published research. In educational research, the selected method should reflect the research question, available evidence, and intended depth of analysis.
A narrative review examines relevant studies through a flexible interpretive process. It is useful for developing theoretical understanding, identifying major debates, and explaining how educational ideas have evolved over time.
A systematic review follows predefined procedures for searching databases, selecting studies, assessing quality, and reporting findings. This approach improves transparency and reduces the risk of selecting evidence solely because it supports the researcher’s expectations.
A scoping review maps the range, concepts, and characteristics of research on a broad topic. Researchers may also use an integrative review to combine empirical and theoretical sources, particularly when examining complex educational issues from several perspectives.