Counselor Education Comprehensive Exam (CECE) Practice Exam

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Which of the following best describes the purpose of a literature review in research?

  1. To establish the theoretical framework of the study.

  2. To collect primary data from participants.

  3. To analyze statistical data.

  4. To conduct experiments.

The correct answer is: To establish the theoretical framework of the study.

The purpose of a literature review in research is to establish the theoretical framework of the study by providing a comprehensive summary and analysis of existing research related to the topic. This involves critically evaluating the current state of knowledge, identifying gaps in the literature, and situating the new research within the context of previous studies. By doing so, the literature review helps to clarify the significance of the research question and supports the development of hypotheses or research objectives. Through the literature review, researchers can gather insights from diverse studies, which informs their own approach, methodology, and analysis of the issue they are investigating. It also enables researchers to build on previous findings rather than starting from scratch, thereby enhancing the rigor and relevance of their work. This foundational step is essential for ensuring that the research is well-grounded in the existing body of knowledge.