Stage 2. Primary Literature: the Journal Article
2 Years Later.......
Dr. Singer first published his research findings on cell membrane structure in a series of articles in 1968 and 1970. These articles are primary sources outlining the methodology and results of his experiments on the hydrolysis of cell membranes.
Primary Literature
Primary sources are the first publication of original research findings, usually occuring at least 2 years after the research begins and giving very detailed information. Start your search for information here if you are looking for current and new findings.
Primary sources can include:
- An article published in a journal
- A paper delivered at a conference by the researchers (conference paper)
- A student's thesis
- Government reports
The peer reviewed, academic journal article is the main tool in which health researchers present their primary research findings and one of the most frequently used sources used for locating health research on a particular topic for a paper, seminar, lab report, etc. A research article describes an original scientific study undertaken by a researcher or group of researchers. It presents the hypothesis, methodology, results and conclusions of the research. It is considered primary literature because it presents new information.
Grey literature, a type of primary literature, is particularly important in the health sciences. The term 'grey' refers to the concept that this information can be hard to find. It is information that is published outside of traditional scholarly journals and books. Health organizations, associations and government departments often publish their own research.
How can you find grey literature?: These materials can be difficult to locate as libraries tend not to collect this type of material. Also, references to these sources do not appear in library catalogues and journal indexes such as PubMed or Scopus. There are some websites, including the UW Library Kinesiology Subject Guide which provide links to grey literature sources. Visiting health association websites and even a Google search is often your best bet.