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WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT:
WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT:
We've talked about using GALILEO to search, but there are some alternative database options that will allow you to adjust your search to your specific needs. We call these subject databases.
Think of GALILEO as a room full of people from different areas of study all talking about the same subject in their own vocabulary. You would be able to pick up bits and pieces from each and perhaps zone in on the information you need, but there's a lot of excess noise that can get in the way. A subject database is a smaller room where the people talking about the subject are from the same area of study and are using the same vocabulary. It narrows the information you have access to, but that can be beneficial in some circumstances.
WHAT TO DO:
WHAT TO DO:
Review the content and visual aid that explains the use of subject databases.
Answer the self-check questions at the end of this page.
Go to the next page of this module, Book Catalog.
Subject Database Basics
Subject Database Basics
What is a subject database?
What is a subject database?
A subject database is a collection of resources that focus on a single academic discipline, or an area of study within an academic discipline. For example: there are subject databases focused on the discipline of history, but there are also subject databases focused on history in a particular era or region.
How do subject databases differ from GALILEO?
How do subject databases differ from GALILEO?
As previously discussed in the GALILEO section of this module, GALILEO is a collection of more than 350 databases, so a search in GALILEO covers a lot of ground. Conversely, the subject databases allow you to search a more specific area of study.
How can subject databases be found?
How can subject databases be found?
Within the library resources, you can locate a subject database by accessing a specific database by name or selecting a database from a list of subject-specific databases.
Using Subject Databases Wisely
Using Subject Databases Wisely
How do you know when to use a subject database?
Scenario 1:
Your previous searches in GALILEO or another library resource have given you results from too many areas of study. You may feel overwhelmed by the amount of excess "noise" when you have to sort through too many articles that do not apply to what you are searching for to find the article(s) you need.
Scenario 2:
It is important for your success in an assignment that you use information from experts in the field. Perhaps your professor asked for you to do so, or perhaps you know that using such information strengthens your argument. Either way, using a subject database in this instance allows you to more easily identify experts in the particular field who are writing on the subject you are addressing in your assignment.
Scenario 3:
You've searched in GALILEO or another library resource and those tools are not returning articles that seem useful. You may be frustrated by not being able to find the right work to support your thesis.
Scenario 4:
Your chosen topic for an assignment applies to many disciplines/areas of study. Your topic is the "belle of the ball" so-to-speak, and everyone from lots of different disciplines wants to dance. You may feel challenged to choose the right article when so many seem plausible.
Subject Database Self Check
Subject Database Self Check
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