Research
Developing some basic research skills, whether you are using the UMPI Library, or engaging in web-based research can save you time and headache! Across classes, disciplines, and majors, you will need to be able to conduct research and use that research appropriately. Research skills in the college classroom include:
Searching and navigating UMS Databases
Being strategic with your search terms
Evaluating web content reliability and avoiding inappropriate or irrelevant web research results
Finding credible, relevant sources, including scholarly and peer-review resources
Citing sources appropriately, in a variety of discipline-specific formats (ie: MLA, APA, Chicago, etc)
You should note that you will have to log into UMPI Library search tools using your @maine.edu email address credentials, and some library functions (like interlibrary loans) require you to enter your Student ID library number. If you have any questions about activating your Student ID, or using it to access resources, please reach out to our friendly library staff!
Let's look at some additional important skills:
Utilizing the UMPI Library's Research Tools
Did you know, that the UMPI library has a great tool, called OneSearch, that gives you a Google-esque search experience for reliable articles, books, and multimedia sources? One Search can be accessed on the UMPI Library page.
Web-based Research Hacks & Assessing Reliability
Using search operators, and understanding reliability can go a long way in helping you narrow down good research using search engines like Google. Let's take a look at this in action:
Research Essentials Training
The UMPI partner UMS Academy has a short training called Research Essentials, that includes determining your research question scope, finding and citing a variety of sources, and more!
Know Your Resources
UMPI's Library Director, Allen Morril (and his amazing staff) are always happy to help students through the research process, from refining search terms to navigating databases! Contact them through:
Phone – (207) 768-9595
Email – allen.morrill@maine.edu