A literature review is an overview of the previous research on a topic. It should summarize the relevant literature, classify it according to its application to your work, and compare it so that you present past work in a coherent manner. The literature review in your research proposal should focus on three elements:

summary of theory underlying your research project;
summary of prior research that has been done to support or refute the theory;
summary prior research that describes the research methods and analysis type you will be using.

The review should be from 4-7 pages long and formatted according to the APA style guide. This is an individual assignment and you will be required to submit your own work. If your submission is simply a copy of another student in your group you will both receive zeros on the assignment.

The School of Public Affairs has created a number of videos and publications that will be helpful as you make your way through the review process. I recommend that if you have never done a literature review that you use these resources. Also, as you read the literature play close attention to how other authors construct their reviews. This will help you greatly as you work on your own.

Helpful links

SPA guide: http://www.ucdenver.edu/academics/colleges/SPA/CurrentStudents/academicresources/Pages/default.aspx (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.

John Jay guide: http://guides.lib.jjay.cuny.edu/c.php?g=322839&p=2162061 (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.

Michigan State guide: http://libguides.lib.msu.edu/c.php?g=95905&p=4414658 (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.