A. One purpose of this assignment is to learn about hot new research in the SLM area. However, the principle of authenticity (relevance to one's interests and needs) is always of paramount importance. Therefore, I am willing to accept an article that is the most current possible regarding a topic of interest. Caveat: you should explain that you looked (and how you looked), and that this is the very most current you could find, despite its age. Also discuss its usefulness given its age - which might still be quite useful, depending upon the research problem.
Q. May I use the article abstract for the summary portion as long as Iquote and cite appropriately? Or do I need to develop my own summary?
A. Good question.
Normally, I'm in favor of using other people's "wheels." This instance
seems like a time when that's not the best thing to do, because you are
generally reading an article for a purpose of your own.
You may certainly quote portions of pre-existing abstracts when
reasonably relevant to your purpose. Make sure to cite any direct quotations or paraphrases.
