Scholarly vs. Popular
Scholarly Journals (also known as Peer-Reviewed or Refereed Journals):
- are often published monthly or quarterly
- may include several lengthy articles on research projects
- provide research studies that include the scientific method with background/introduction, methods, results, discussion (except literary criticism)
- feature articles written, reviewed, and designed by and for professionals
- display black and white graphics and some advertisements
- list information sources in article text and in references at the end of an article
- can be found on the free Internet but easily searchable in research databases
EXAMPLES:
Physical Therapy | American Psychologist | The Journal of Religion and Popular Culture
Popular Magazines:
- are usually published monthly or weekly
- include short articles on a wide variety of topics
- include articles with basic facts and/or opinion of people, ideas, or events
- feature articles written and edited by staff or freelance journalists
- provide color photographs and advertisements
- list information sources sometimes in the text
- frequently found on the free Internet but easily searchable in research databases
EXAMPLES:
Psychology Today | Science News | The Economist
More Information on Journals vs. Magazines:
Scholarly vs. Popular Materials Guide (from North Carolina State University Libraries)