Microsoft Word research method fm doc

After completing this chapter, the student should be able to
: 
1. Describe the reasons for reviewing available literature and other information during 
the preparation of a research proposal. 
2. Describe the resources that are available for carrying out such a review. 
3. Record (organize) information obtained from literature on an index card.
4.2 Introduction 
At the outset of his/her study the investigator should be acquainted with the relevant 
literature. It is of minimal use to wait until a report is written. 
4.3 Use of literature review
 
• It prevents you from duplicating work that has been done before. 
• It increases your knowledge on the problem you want to study and this may assist you 
in refining your "statement of the problem". 
• It gives you confidence why your particular research project is needed. 
• To be familiar with different research methods 
4.4 Sources of information 
ƒ
Card catalogues of books in libraries 
ƒ
Organizations 
(institutions) 
ƒ
Published 
information 
(books, journals, etc.) 
ƒ
Unpublished documents (studies in related fields, reports, etc.)
ƒ
Computer based literature searches such as Medline
ƒ
Opinions, beliefs of key persons 

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Research methodology 
19
Some examples of resources where information could be obtained are: 
ƒ
Clinic and hospital based data from routine activity statistics 
ƒ
Local surveys, annual reports 
ƒ
Scientific conferences 
ƒ
Statistics issued at region and district levels 
ƒ
Articles from national and international journals (e.g., The Ethiopian Journal of Health 
Development, The Ethiopian Medical Journal, The East African Medical journal, The 
Lancet, etc.) 
ƒ
Internet 
ƒ
Documentation, reports, and raw data from the Ministry of Health, Central Statistical 
Offices, Nongovernmental organizations, etc.