Find the right resources exploring various search strategies to be able to answer research questions.
| Specific Learning Outcomes |
Use advanced search features in subject research databases. Combine keywords in a search using Boolean operators when searching on library resources and other relevant search engines. Identify synonyms, related terms, and alternative spellings for keywords. Apply advanced search strategies such as phrase searching, truncation, and wildcard to get more relevant results. Search for more relevant primary and secondary sources of information in the field. Learn when to use search limits in searching the catalog and other relevant databases. Use a variety of sources for information and help. Interpret and use citations to find additional literature. Access databases and/or indexing & abstracting services to search for relevant journal articles on a topic. Recognize when to use a cross-search facility (i.e.: Article Search) and when to search within an individual database for a more sophisticated search Refine a search to broaden or narrow the number of results returned. Determine if the search strategy should be revised. Use tools for acquiring resources outside of library collections (e.g. Interlibrary Loan, Google Books, Google Scholar, Open Access Materials, etc.) |
| Suggested Activities / Sessions (but not limited to) |
Employing Advanced Search Strategies and Techniques (e.g. Truncation, wildcard, phrase searching, etc.) in subject-specific databases Exploring Google Scholar Understanding Search Limits Referring to References / Working with Works Cited/ Exploring the Bibliography Exploring SciFinder Unboxing Brill Journals |
| Assessment | Quiz or exercise at the end of the lesson |