Why use a database over an internet search?
Databases are specifically curated resources. All content that you find in a database has been vetted for credibility and reliability. Many articles that you will find in a database have undergone a rigorous process to determine whether or not it is fit for publication.
Databases also allow you to easily filter your results. You can filter by: peer-reviewed, publication date, location, source type, and much more.
Your results are only as good as your search terms. They should be specific and relevant, and should come directly from your research question(s).
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Boolean Operators help you broaden or narrow your search results. They are your best friend when searching databases!
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Strong research uses multiple sources--and a variety of source types (academic and not).
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How to efficiently determine if an academic article is the right fit for your needs?
Read the abstract
Look at the figures
Review the findings
If these seem to give you what you need, the article is a good fit for you! If something seems off, it's best to search again.
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A solid database for preliminary searches
Good overviews of topics
Great at showing different perspectives involved with an issue
JSTOR (See Ms. Lamothe when you locate an article you're interested in)
Helpful for finding literary critiques
National Geographic Magazine (1995 - Present)
Ms. Lamothe's favorite starting point for all inquiries
Provides different perspectives by issue, organized argument by argument