Introduction and Purpose of Critical Literature Reviews

At Level 7, a literature review is not a descriptive summary of existing writing but a rigorous, analytical exercise in evaluating, synthesising and positioning knowledge. This video addresses AC 1.2 of 7CO04 by setting out what a critical literature review actually is and what distinguishes it from the kind of narrative summary that falls short of postgraduate expectations. The video covers the fundamental purpose a literature review serves within an original research project — specifically how it contextualises a study within existing scholarly and professional debates and establishes the credibility of the researcher undertaking it.

A substantial portion of the video focuses on the role of theory within a critical literature review. It examines how relevant theoretical frameworks — including motivational theories, change management models, organisational behaviour frameworks and labour market theories — are engaged with critically rather than merely described. The video addresses what critical engagement with theory actually involves, including evaluating explanatory power, examining limitations and assessing the transferability of frameworks across different cultural or organisational contexts, such as the distinction between findings drawn from large organisations and those applicable to SMEs. The video also covers how a review of existing literature informs methodological decision-making by drawing on what prior research has found productive, where limitations have been acknowledged and how earlier methodological choices have shaped the conclusions researchers were able to reach.

The video further addresses how a critical literature review identifies gaps, contradictions and areas of insufficient understanding within a body of knowledge — all of which serve to justify why a particular research question merits investigation. It covers the analytical standards expected at Level 7, including questioning assumptions, examining methodological rigour and synthesising evidence from a range of source types such as academic journal papers, book chapters, textbooks, government and sector reports and professional body research. The distinction between description and genuine critique runs throughout the video as a central concern of AC 1.2.