Typically, targeting research gaps involves a process of reading a wide range of literature, whether it is a review of the literature or articles focusing on a single scientific question, which provides an initial insight into the latest developments in different research directions in the field. LR is able to construct broad frameworks during this process, with each article focusing on a single issue providing inspiration. By comparing the frameworks and research ideas created by LR, it is possible to uncover imperceptible research gaps.
How to find research gaps?
(1) Chronologically – from early research to current research to find important research discussions;
② By topic – categorise according to topic and theoretical model, analyse the article in depth and critique it rigorously;
(iii) By research methodology – organise the discussion based on qualitative or quantitative (try to avoid mixing) approaches.
How to write a research gap?
1. Identify the research gap
With the help of the above ideas, research gaps are found, identifying in which area there is still a vast research space or significant value. Then, draw on previous research and theories to put forward a preliminary personal viewpoint.
2. Detailed Research Objectives
This section requires setting clear research objectives and focusing on certain basic research theories and methods in the field through extensive reading. Then, focusing on the research gaps that you have positioned yourself in, you will elaborate on the research from several specific aspects and provide a simplified description.
3. Arguing one’s point of view
Simply put, this means finding arguments to prove the research value of one’s viewpoint. To this end, it is necessary to be based on the academic theoretical foundation of the previous, and incorporate their own thinking and insights to deepen its meaning, and it is best to add a full picture of the data to reveal the shortcomings of the research, and then transformed into a personal independent research.
4. Research Overview
This part is very simple, just refine the expression of the purpose and content of the study. Does it further the research in this area. Clearly demonstrate your understanding of the research fallout you have identified.
Caveats.
The literature should not be too dated when looking for research fallouts.
Be sure to stay on topic while writing so that you do not get led by previous theories.
Common Sentences for Research Fallout Expression –
Emphasise the inadequacy of previous research:
Most researchers have not yet taken into account the impact of
Most researchers have not yet taken into account the impact of Reports have failed to resolve the contradiction between X and Y
Most research on X has been conducted in a limited field.
Identify weaknesses in a single study or paper.
The main problem with this experiment is
No attempt has been made to quantify the relationship between X and Y
The scope of this study is relatively narrow, focusing primarily on…
Introduce the problem and limitations with a theory or argument:
Reports have failed to resolve the contradiction between X and Y
Jones’ understanding of the X framework seems dubious.
Theory X has been criticised on many levels.
Introduce problems and limitations in the method or practice.
The disadvantage of this approach is its reliance on… The disadvantage of this approach is its reliance on… high demand
Another problem with this approach is that X is not taken into account
However, when trying to implement the policy, it faces many difficulties.
Criticise the author or the author’s work:
Smith insists that… , but ignores the factor of
Smith’s explanatory analysis has been called into question.
Smith’s multivariate analysis has received a lot of criticism.
Offer constructive suggestions.
If the study includes… , it is more attractive. It would be more beneficial if these studies included… , it is more attractive.
It would be more beneficial if these studies focused on… .
If the researcher had asked… , the study would have seemed more relevant. If the researcher had asked… , the study would have seemed more relevant.
