Getting Started with Your Assignment
Many of your information communities will require some creative thinking when it comes to finding scholarly sources for your paper. For example, it is unlikely that there will be many peer-reviewed articles on Persian cat fanciers specifically so think of this group in a broader context (hobbyists, pet owners, pet ownership). If it is a group that socializes only online, "virtual communities" is a possible search term. As you can see, you will need to draw parallels and extrapolate in order to find the peer-reviewed articles you'll need. Below are the best resources to start your research.
Researching for INFO 200
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How to Find Sources for Your Literature Review MatrixSome tips and tricks for finding scholarly sources for your assignment.
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Examples of Search Terms & Search StringsHere are some search terms you can try using when researching your information community along with examples of search strings.
How to Read a Scholarly Article
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How to Read a Scholarly ArticleA step-by-step guide on how to and critically and efficiently read scholarly articles.
Sources for Background Information
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Encyclopedia of Library and Information Sciences This link opens in a new windowThe Encyclopedia of Library and Information Sciences, now in its fourth edition, compiles the contributions of major researchers and practitioners and explores the cultural institutions of more than 30 countries. This major reference presents over 550 entries extensively reviewed for accuracy in seven print volumes or online. The new fourth edition, which includes 55 new entires and 60 revised entries, continues to reflect the growing convergence among the disciplines that influence information and the cultural record, with coverage of the latest topics as well as classic articles of historical and theoretical importance.
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Pew Research CenterA great source for current research on libraries and their users. Also provides authoritative reports on online communities and information seeking.
Most Useful Databases
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Library & Information Science Source This link opens in a new windowStart Here: Library and Information Science Source (LISS), which indexes more than 2,000 journals, is probably the database you will use most often.
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Library and Information Science Collection This link opens in a new windowThis Taylor & Francis database searches only about 50 peer-reviewed journals but includes some important titles. Articles you have access to have a green check mark below and to the right of the title. Others can be requested through Interlibrary Loan.
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Gale OneFile Information Science This link opens in a new windowUpdated daily with peer reviewed and trade publication articles covering all aspects of managing and maintaining information and technology, including usability, cataloging, circulation, business information, and more.
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Academic Search Complete This link opens in a new windowThis comprehensive database includes articles from a wide variety of disciplines.
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Emerald Insight This link opens in a new windowContains 30+ library science journals and is good for library management, collection management, and reference.
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SAGE Research Methods This link opens in a new windowA terrific resource for INFO 285. Sage Research Methods includes books, articles, videos, and datasets. It also has case studies of actual research projects using a wide variety of research methods.
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Web of Science (and ESI & JCR) This link opens in a new windowWeb of Science covers a wide variety of disciplines. Use it for citation searches and researching a subject forward and backwards in the literature.
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Library Literature & Information Science Retrospective This link opens in a new windowUse Library Lit Retrospective for historical research. It has articles dating from 1905-1983.
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Ulrich's Periodicals Directory This link opens in a new windowIs it peer-reviewed? Search on the journal title in Ulrich's. If it is marked as "refereed," it is peer reviewed.