Abstract:
This report is intended as a companion for preceptors and engineering scholars when
conducting exploration is part of course- work conditions Discussion includes a description
of a literature hunt, the purpose of a literature review finding sources and a general strategy
to help conduct an effective and productive literature hunt. Using tools such as this report,
students can become more pro-active about their research projects. Teachers can use this
report, among other tools, to begin dialog with their students about expectations for
research assignments. Two key steps in a literature search are: (i) finding sources; and (ii)
synthesizing information. Each of these is addressed in two of the major sections in this
report, as well as how the literature search relates to the entire research process. Then
pertinent information is repeated in the summary section for convenience. An annotated
reference list is included for ease in finding other useful guidance.
