Research Article Summary and
Critique
This assignment is asking you to do a brief critique of two
psychological journal articles. You can choose any topic you are interested in, but try to
not make it a very broad topic.
For example, donÕt just select Self-Esteem, but maybe Self-Esteem and
Reactions to Failure. You will need to find TWO empirical research articles (from academic research journals) related to that
topic – this means the two articles need to include some type of
empirical research like a case study, correlational study, or an
experiment. Just make sure both of
your articles do not only use the case study approach. Your critique will then summarize the
two articles and compare and contrast the methodology, results and discussion
in your own words! You should then propose your own ideas for future research
on the topic. The length should be
between three – five pages.
Specifically, your paper should include the following parts:
- A
compete citation to the articles that you are reviewing – also
include a copy of both articles with your assignment.
- A
summary of the articles – this should include the purpose of each
study, the research questions and/or hypotheses, the method (sample,
measures, procedures), and results and conclusions.
- A
critique of the articles – include your reactions and assessments of
the research presented. Some
questions you might want to think about include the following: Did you see any methodological
flaws in the study (e.g., sample, measures or procedures)? In your
opinion, do the authors leave out any important variables? Are the studies easy to read and
understand? Are there ways in which the studies can be improved? How are the two studies
similar? How are the two
studies different? Which of
your two studies do you think better supports the topic you selected?
- Educational
applications/implications –your final section should include your
assessment of the educational applications and implications of the
studiesÕ findings for psychologists or therapists assisting individuals
with personality issues. Does
this help make your topic ÔclearerÕ for these health professionals?
Remember that your two articles must be
related to the SAME topic!