Databases

Library databases provide access to articles from newspapers, magazines (popular), and scholarly (peer-reviewed) journals. Some databases also provide  videos, audio clips, images, and primary sources. SHR have several Databases.

•  Peer-reviewed journal articles: articles which are reviewed and revised as a condition of publication. This review is done by fellow experts in the subject (peers). 

• Tip: you can limit a database search to ONLY peer-reviewed publications by checking a box. It is sometime called "scholarly." Be aware that this limit can return non- peer-reviewed items such as letters to the editor or book reviews.

• Popular magazine articles: articles meant for the general public, requiring little or no background knowledge or expertise.

Tips for DB success:

1. Search and save: save more than you need; save everything that could be useful. Over-gather so you don't have to return to DB "search mode". Confirm that your "Save" method works (emailing, saving to Drive, etc.).

2. Think out of the box: search within your subject, but consider searching beyond. (Film, psychology, economics, history,  and more can intersect with & inform your topic.)

3. Speak the DBs language: each database may use different keywords & subjects. Try synonyms and look for suggested topics & terms.

4. Refine/limit search results by subject, format, date, etc.

5. Use the DB's citation tools: many link to Noodletools & Google Apps. All will provide MLA citations.

Best databases for your class: