Critical Analysis of Journal Article

CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF A JOURNAL ARTICLE How do you critically analyse a journal article? Analysing a journal article is not as difficult as you might think. In fact, it is a very simple matter if you follow the guidelines below. Title •

Is the title clear?

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After reading the article, do you think the title is appropriate and reflecting the essence of the article?

Abstract Does the abstract explain the following: •

What (Research Questions, Aims, Objectives)

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Why

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How

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Key outcomes

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Key contributions

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Limitations

Introduction •

Is There a Clear Objective / Research Question?

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Is the Objective / Research Question Interesting?

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Is it Interesting and Encourage You to Read Further?

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Does it Contain a Well-Developed and Articulated Theoretical Framework?

Theory

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Is the Theory Appropriately Applied?

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Is the Context for Objectives / Hypothesis / Prepositions Clear and the Supporting Logic Persuasive?

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Is Extant Literature Appropriately Reflected?

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Do the Hypothesis or Prepositions Logically Flow from the Theory?

Methods •

Are the Sample and Variables Appropriate for the Hypothesis?

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Is the Data Collection Method Consistent with the Analytical Technique's) Applied?

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Does the Study Have Internal and External Validity?

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Are the Analytical Techniques Appropriate for the Theory and Research Questions?

Results •

Do the results flow from data analysis?

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Are the results presented clearly and in an understandable way?

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Are the findings supported by any other study?

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Are there alternative explanations for the results?

Contribution and practical implications

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Does the Paper Make a Value added Contribution to the Existing Knowledge or Extend Understanding?

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Does the Paper Stimulate Thought or Debate?

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Does the paper show PRACTICAL implications and alternative explanations?

Overall assessment •

Are you convinced by the findings?

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Are there ‘holes’ where nothing is said?

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Are inconsistencies discussed and explained?

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Is ‘what should be done next’ discussed?

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