Academic journals are publications and forums where new research is evaluated.

What is a Peer-Reviewed Article?

Studies that are published in academic journals are examined by an independent panel of academic peers. This process of peer review evaluates the scope, methodology, analysis, and conclusions presented by the research. Some peer review processes emphasize relevance and significance in the field; others emphasize technical and statistical accuracy.

Finding Peer-Reviewed Journal Articles in the VSCS Libraries

Peer-reviewed journals are housed in library databases (and sometimes on the open web). To find them through the library, enter search terms in the VSCS Libraries Discovery Search box on the library homepage and select Academic Journals as your source type and limit your results to Peer-Reviewed.

Peer-reviewed journals contain original research articles and case studies along with editorials, commentary articles, opinion essays, and book reviews, so examine your search results carefully to make sure the article is what you need for your research.

RESEARCH TIP!

Journal articles can be very technical or specific. Review articles or meta-analysis articles can be useful to find because they offer a broader overview of a topic. They typically include more background and context. Add the word "review" or "meta-analysis" when you search for peer-reviewed articles. You'll be more likely to find them in your results!