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Library support in the research lifecycle

In this LibGuide, we will explore the symbiotic relationship between scholarly communication and academic library support, guiding researchers through the dynamic research lifecycle.

Planning: support & resources

LibGuides 
Research assistance and useful resources and services compiled by Nelson Mandela University librarians. 
 
Literature review
 A literature review is a survey of credible sources on a topic, often used in dissertations, theses, and research papers. Literature reviews give an overview of knowledge on a subject, helping you identify relevant theories and methods, as well as gaps in existing research.
 
Systematic Review

A systematic review attempts to collate all empirical evidence that fits pre-specified eligibility criteria in order to answer a specific research question. The key characteristics of a systematic review are:

  • a clearly stated set of objectives with pre-defined eligibility criteria for studies

  • an explicit, reproducible methodology

  • a systematic search that attempts to identify all studies that would meet the eligibility criteria

  • an assessment of the validity of the findings of the included studies, for example through the assessment of risk of bias 

  • a systematic presentation, and synthesis, of the characteristics and findings of the included studies.

 
Research Data Management

This LibGuide provides guidance on research data management (RDM) during the reseach lifecycle.

 
Sage Research Methods 
Sage Research Methods gives researchers access to resources and tools that will assist them in planning, conducting and analysing their research projects. 
 
ORCID iD
ORCID (Open Researcher and Contributor Identification) is an open, not-for-profit organisation aiming to supply a persistent and unique identifier - an ORCID iD - to any individual involved in research, scholarship, and innovation activities.

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