Often, an assignment will require the use of "scholarly" or "peer-reviewed" sources. Most databases provide a function enabling to select only scholarly (or peer reviewed) journals. Look for the following characteristics:
PURPOSE:
- Communicate the results of research in the field of study covered by the journal.
- Reflect a systematic and thorough study of a single topic, often involving experiments or surveys.
- Occasionally publish review articles that summarize the current state of knowledge on a topic.
APPEARANCE:
- Lack the slick advertising, classified ads, coupons, etc..
- Articles are often printed one column to a page, as in books.
- Often graphs, tables, or charts referring to specific points in the articles.
AUTHORITY:
- Written by the person(s) who did the research being reported.
- The first author listed is often the primary researcher who coordinated or supervised the work done by the other authors.
- Most highly‑regarded scholarly journals are typically those sponsored by professional associations, such as the American Psychological Association or the American Chemical Society.
VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY:
- Articles are evaluated by an editorial board and other experts (peer review) before they are accepted for publication.
- Ensure that the articles published are based on solid research that meets the normal standards of the field of study covered by the journal.
- Professors sometimes refer to peer-reviewed journals as refereed journals.
WRITING STYLE:
- Contain an advanced vocabulary, since the authors use the technical language or jargon of their field of study.
- Authors assume that the reader already possesses a basic understanding of the field of study.
REFERENCES:
- Always indicate the sources of their information.
- References are usually listed at the end of an article, but they may appear in the form of footnotes, endnotes, or a bibliography.
