Understanding Empirical Studies vs. Literature Reviews
It's important to distinguish between empirical studies and literature reviews, as each serves a different purpose in research. Here’s a comparison:
Empirical Studies
- Reports of original research, often involving lab experiments.
- Key components include: Introduction, Materials & Methods, Results, and Discussion.
- Common phrases: 'We tested...' or 'In our study, we measured...'
Literature Reviews
- Critical evaluations of already published material.
- Primary objectives: Define problems, summarize prior research, identify gaps, and suggest future research directions.
- Do not involve physical (lab) research.
Understanding the distinction between empirical studies and literature reviews is crucial for navigating academic research.