Assignment 2: Theoretical Perspective and Literature Review
For this assignment the student is expected to (a) construct a literature map, (b) identify a theoretical perspective, and (c) write a study-by-study literature review. The following guidelines, along with a review of the chapter titled Reviewing the Literature and the library training, will assist in the completion of this assignment.
Be sure to review the automated presentations in Module 5 on the Use of Theory.
Literature Map
A literature map is a visual presentation of the theory and major sections and subsections related to the problem statement. There are two major types of maps: a hierarchical and circular design. For this assignment you are to construct a modified version of a hierarchical literature map (see Figure 3.7, pg. 96 for example and example on next page). Use the following diagram below as a starting point:
Be sure to include the in-text reference following each of the categories within the map, and then provide the full reference at the end of the assignment. Include a brief introduction to the map.
Review the example for further clarification:
The literature map illustrates the problem (need), improving teacher self-efficacy in the classroom, as being grounded in Bandura’s (1977) social cognitive theory. Teachers are generally distinguished as novice and experienced. Within this framework, major categories are hierarchically delineated such as burnout, academic achievement, the environment, and job satisfaction.
Example map:
Theoretical Perspective
The theoretical perspective (sometimes referred to as the theoretical framework, lens, or foundation) can be located in the discipline-based literature. The theory is typically identified once the student has identified the problem statement and reviews the discipline-based literature for the background and significance of the problem. After examining recent studies that have addressed the problem, one overarching theory should be identified.
Use the following script to write out the theoretical perspective:
The theory based on the problem of ___ (problem) is grounded in the ___ (theory and name). This theory was originally developed by ___ (name and year) and was primarily used to study ___ (identify topics where this theory was applied including sources). The theory of ___ (theory name) indicates that ___ (discuss premise and propositions of theory in several sentences).
Literature Review
A study-by-study literature review provides a detailed summary of each study as indicated by the major theme represented in the literature map. Each study is presented in a manner that leads the reader to the next study using transitional techniques. Review the examples and descriptions of study-by-study reviews provided in the chapter titled Reviewing the Literature.
Novice Teachers
The need to improve teacher self-efficacy in the classroom
Social Cognitive Theory
(Bandura, 1977, 1997)
Experienced Teachers
Sources of Efficacy Information e.g., verbal persuasion (Labone, 2004)
Antecedents of Teacher Efficacy
(Moran & Hoy, 2010)
Teacher Efficacy and Burnout
(Skaalvik & Skaalvik, 2010; Egyed & Short, 2006)
Academic Achievement
(Wheatley, 2002)
Conditions and Environment
(Schunk & Meece, 2006)
Collective Teacher Efficacy
(Goddard & Goddard, 2006)
Job Satisfaction
(Blackburn & Robinson, 2010)
Identify a minimum of 10 peer-reviewed research articles derived from primary sources. Use only Primary sources and do not use Secondary sources (see Figure below for explanations).
Source
Definition
Example
Primary
Report of scientific discoveries, experiments, and/or clinical trials. The results are factual, not interpretive.
Published results in any refereed journal or book of specific research studies, scientific experiments, or clinical trials.
Secondary
Analyzes and interprets research results, scientific discoveries.
Publications about the significance of research or experiments, clinical trials in magazines, websites, or news media.
Use the following guiding points to assist in the presentation of each study:
 Include headings and subheadings
 Provide a detailed description of the study including the problem statement
 Discuss the intent or implied objectives of the study
 Explain the design and approach to collect the data
 Provide a summary of the results
 Include transitional statements linking one study to the next
Following the study-by-study review, a concluding or summary paragraph should be included. Summarize all the major themes and the primary results of the findings. Briefly discuss how the review sets the premise or foundation for the presentation of a purpose statement and research questions. Also, briefly discuss whether or not the ensuing study should be quantitatively or qualitatively oriented. The presentations in Module 5 will help with this clarification.