Connecting the Dots: Research Discovery using Network Analysis Algorithms

Authors

Soma Prasad, IGNOUFollow
Rupak Chakravarty, Panjab University, Chandigarh, IndiaFollow

Date of this Version

Fall 9-22-2021

Document Type

Article

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to examine the process of research discovery using network analysis algorithm. To assess the paper discovery module and other associated features, the paper titled “Lifetime Prevalence and Age-of-Onset Distributions of DSM-IV Disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication” as selected as “seed paper” authored by American sociologist “Ronald C Kessler”, Professor of Health Care Policy at Harvard Medical School. The findings of the experimental study revealed that unlike traditional citation databases which would yield results by keyword or topic search, Inciteful creates a graph of academic papers based on selected “seed papers” which provides greater insight from it very quickly while also providing information on similar papers, important papers as well as prolific authors, institutions and journals. Research discovery using network analysis algorithms is a novel concept being tested through the Inciteful web application.

The study demonstrates a novel tool way of exploring the literature through maps and filters. The method discussed goes beyond just keyword searching, thus avoiding the problem of missing papers if wrong keywords are entered by the researchers. The approach adopted by this study gives newer insights and allow researchers and student to find access to high quality content in a more intuitive and accurate way.