Here's a breakdown of their key characteristics:
Purpose:
* Provide context and background information: They help readers understand the broader landscape of the research area.
* Introduce key concepts and definitions: They establish common ground and ensure everyone is using the same language.
* Identify major theories, models, and perspectives: They give a sense of the dominant ideas within the field.
* Guide further research: They point readers towards more specific sources for in-depth exploration.
Types:
* Textbooks: Offer a comprehensive introduction to a subject.
* Review articles: Summarize and synthesize the current state of knowledge in a particular area.
* Handbooks and encyclopedias: Provide concise definitions, summaries, and overviews of key topics.
* General scholarly journals: Publish articles that cover a broad range of topics within a discipline.
* Government reports: Offer data and analysis on issues relevant to the research topic.
Distinction from Specific References:
* Specific references focus on individual research studies, providing detailed information about their methods, findings, and conclusions.
* General references provide a broader perspective, serving as a foundation for understanding the specific research that follows.
Example:
* Specific reference: "Smith, J. (2023). The impact of social media on student mental health. Journal of Educational Psychology, 105(3), 45-60."
* General reference: "Feldman, R. S. (2021). Understanding psychology (10th ed.). McGraw-Hill."
Importance in Literature Reviews:
General references are crucial for establishing a solid foundation for a literature review. They provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the research area, allowing them to appreciate the context and significance of the specific studies cited.