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There are a variety of different types of sources you’ll encounter as you search for information to support your assignments and discussions. Generally, you’ll be using scholarly sources, primarily peer-reviewed research articles. However, research articles have a very narrow focus and scope and often will not have all the information you need to complete an assignment or discussion. You’ll find, particularly for more complex assignments and projects, that you’ll need to use a combination of sources that may include peer-reviewed articles, government sources, and scholarly book chapters – even potentially articles from a trade publication or professional journal.

Keep in mind that some assignments or discussions will specifically ask you to find a non-scholarly source such as a blog post or newspaper article. Make sure to closely review the assignment instructions and grading rubric before beginning an assignment.

Search tip! Many assignments require the use of “scholarly sources.” Clarify with the instructor if only peer-reviewed articles can be used or if other sources such as scholarly books and encyclopedias are also appropriate.

Types of Sources

Review these sections to determine what sources are appropriate to cite in assignments, discussion posts, or doctoral capstones. Even if a source is not appropriate to cite, it may still be helpful as background information or to identify other appropriate sources of information. Keep in mind, there may be unique situations and exceptions when a source may or may not be used. Always consult with your instructor or doctoral chair for specific guidance.

 

Appropriate
Peer-Reviewed Journals
 Required for most discussion posts and assignments.
May Be Appropriate
  • Textbooks
  • Books
  • Encyclopedias
  • Handbooks
  • Government Sources
 If scholarly, non-peer-reviewed sources are allowed.
Professional and Trade Journals
 If referencing industry and professional news and trends.
  • Magazines
  • Newspapers
 If referencing popular or current events.
Not Appropriate
  • Dissertations and Doctoral Studies
  • Conference Proceedings
 Not typically used in coursework.
Websites

General websites are not typically used in coursework.

Be sure to distinguish between different types of online content. Websites created by individuals or businesses are not the same as online publications like professional journals, magazines, and newspapers, which may be appropriate to cite.

 


Appropriate
Peer-Reviewed Journals
 Make up a large percentage of the literature review.
May Be Appropriate
Scholarly Books Used selectively. Seminal theoretical works are an example of scholarly books that may be cited in doctoral research.
Government Sources Used selectively. Government sources are typically used when citing statistics. Other types of government publications may be appropriate depending on the dissertation topic or the type of professional doctoral study.
Not Appropriate
Professional and Trade Journals Not typically used. May be appropriate for some professional doctoral studies.
  • Textbooks
  • Encyclopedias
  • Handbooks
  • Conference Proceedings
  • Magazines
  • Newspapers
  • Websites
 Not typically used in doctoral capstones.
Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

Not typically used.

They can be an excellent source for identifying methodology and theoretical sources and locating related peer-reviewed research. They’re also helpful for guidance on formatting and organizing your study.

Appropriate
Books Excellent source of background information.
Encyclopedias Excellent source for understanding a topic quickly.
Handbooks Helpful when learning about practical, procedural, or applied information.
May Be Appropriate
Dissertations and Doctoral Studies If you’re already familiar with the topic being studied, the literature review can be helpful for a recent overview of specific concepts being studied in the capstone.
Professional and Trade Journals Can be a good source for general knowledge of industry news and trends.
Magazines Can be a good source for general knowledge of popular or current events.
Newspapers Can be a good source for general knowledge of news events.
Not Appropriate
Peer-Reviewed Journals Not a good source for background information. The literature review provides background information but assumes understanding and familiarity with the topic, tends to cover mostly recent research, and is specific to the concepts being studied.
Websites General websites may be used for background information but should be carefully evaluated and used in conjunction with other credible sources such as scholarly books and encyclopedias.

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