Literature searching for PGRs training series

A 3-part series looking at reflection and reconceptualising literature searching, formulating a search strategy, techniques for narrowing and broadening search results, and analysing search results to identify the most appropriate papers on a topic.  

Learning Objectives 

• To gain an understanding of what literature searching entails at doctoral level. 
• To develop a successful literature searching strategy for your project. 
• Opportunity to explore the different databases the OU subscribes to. 

Literature Searching Session 1 

In this session we will begin with an overview of literature searching following a search model. Then we will look at formulating and revising a search strategy in order to perform a systematic and comprehensive search – this includes choosing databases, choosing keywords and recording your searches.

Register to attend Session 1

Literature Searching Session 2

This session involves identifying techniques for narrowing and broadening searches and when to apply them in order to construct and revise a search strategy. We will then identify and reflect on means of saving and exporting search results, this will allow us to manage search results effectively and understand the benefits of doing so. 

Register to attend Session 2

Literature Searching Session 3

This session involves analysing search results in order to identify the most appropriate papers on a topic and revise your search strategy. We will then describe and apply a scoping search process in order to establish the extent of the literature that exists on a topic.

Register to attend Session 3

Recordings of online sessions are available on Teams.