Research Tools and Databases

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When conducting scholarly research for an assignment, paper or project, it is best to use library databases.  The expert organization and content of these databases is meant to save time and provide you with results that are appropriate and relevant. 

 

Internet search engines, such as Google, search the entire world wide web- you will get quantity, but not necessarily quality! Internet search engines can yield hundreds of millions of hits with just one keyword.  Much of this information is not needed by students.  

 

Academic databases utilize filters and only search published, scholarly, peer-reviewed content.  You are getting quality over quantity. 

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As a scholar, you must learn to determine when it is best to use search engines or databases.  You are also responsible for evaluating your resources and determining their validity and relevancy.  You are always welcome to seek help in the media center!

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 If you need any help learning to use and search these databases, please see Mr. Cleveland.