Start to write. Follow the instructions of your assessment, then structure your writing accordingly.
The four key parts of a journal article review are:
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1. Initial identification of the article using your course’s reference style.
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2. A summary – What is the article about and why was it written.
To complete this section of the review think about:
1. The purpose - why was the article written
2. The methodology - what method did the authors use to gather their information and reach their conclusions e.g. literature review, interviews, a case study etc.
3. Their findings – what were the results or findings of their research
4. Conclusions – what conclusions or recommendations did the author(s) come to about their research.
Example of part of a summary
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The purpose of the article, ‘The enduring appeal of learning styles’ highlights the lack of evidence regarding the educational value of applying a particular ‘learning style’ to an individual learner. It shows that the continued use of matching learners to a learning style only serves to perpetuate ‘stereotyping and harmful teaching’ (p.5).
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3. A critique, or a discussion about the key points of the journal article.
A critique is a discussion about the key points of the journal article. It should be a balanced discussion about the strengths and weaknesses of the key points and structure of the article.
You will also need to discuss if the author(s) points are valid (supported by other literature) and robust (would you get the same outcome if the way the information was gathered was repeated).
Example of part of a critique
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The research objectives and arguments of the article are clearly stated and are supported by relevant and reliable data. The author has defined the concept of learning styles and has put the practice of applying learning styles to individuals into both its educational and cultural context. Scott then argues her case, by way of evidence and citing a 40 year study, that by attributing a ‘learning style’ to an individual only serves to label and stereotype the learner, rather than enhance their learning experience. Furthermore, this research has been able to highlight inadequate levels of research into the ‘relationship between instructional design of learning material and learning styles’(p.9). In addition, it has found inadequate levels of research into the claims made that by teaching to a learner’s ‘style’ higher educational outcomes can be achieved. Therefore, Scott has successfully used current literature and the results of a 40 year study to produce an argument that is robust and valid.
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4. A conclusion - a final evaluation of the article
1. Give an overall opinion of the text.
2. Briefly summarise key points and determine if they are valid, useful, accurate etc.
3. Remember, do not include new ideas or opinions in the conclusion.
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In conclusion the journal article ‘The enduring appeal of ‘learning styles’ by Catherine Scott presents a well balanced, robust and valid discussion about the value of matching a learner with a particular learning style. The author’s use of current literature...... The strength of the article........yet it does not provide.......... Overall,......
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