Conduct secondary research. In secondary research, you research information already collected by a primary researcher. Performing secondary research includes evaluating existing literature for strengths, limitations, and ethical considerations. When evaluating literature, think about questions such as the following:
Were the author’s interpretations and conclusions supported by the evidence he or she presented? Was there any apparent bias? Were there other ways that specific data could be interpreted other than how the author approached it? Were any important variables left out of the study? Was every assertion supported by fact? Did the text use reliable resources?
When conducting secondary research, you have the responsibility of evaluating your own research to avoid ethical issues. Consider strengths and limitations when evaluating the articles. Finally, consider potential ethical issues in conducting secondary research.