Resource Roundup: Research Edition

Research is a little more streamlined these days...

starmanseries / Foter.com / CC BY

In one of my previous posts, I gave you some pointers on getting started with the writing process, which were probably only helpful IF you had already done all your research. So, what if you're having trouble finding the sources to help you make your argument (and to argue against)? Here are some basic tips for getting started with the research process (in the form of our Resource Roundup):

Library Love

• ETSU's Charles C. Sherrod Library provides this valuable link, with tutorials on how to get started with library searches. Even if you're a pro at searching databases and the stacks, viewing some of these tutorials could give you just the refresher course you need to get the most out of your queries.

• From how to determine the physical location of a book in the library to how to vet a Web source, this "How do I..." page on the Sherrod Library site has answers to important research questions. Be sure to check out the "Find Refereed Journals" link, which has tips for determining what counts as a scholarly or refereed journal and a list of databases and search tips specific to them.

• Don't forget about the public library! The Johnson City Public Library has two resources that I think can be particularly useful to MALS students (and of course, you may find more):

The Tennessee Room houses regional and state historical materials, as well as Tennessee geneaology materials. You can find census and other data here, as well. (Primary sources!!)

Whether you're doing research about grant-giving organizations, or looking for a grant to complete your research project, the JCPL's Foundation Center Cooperating Collection is a wonderful (free) resource.

General Internet and Other Research Tips

• Don't get stuck on the terminology you've created or have gotten used to using. Think of synonyms, other terminology that has shown up in your research, and even the opposite of the topic you're researching. Get help with synonyms and antonyms on sites like thesaurus.com.

 • Google Scholar now offers anyone with an Internet connection access to peer-reviewed articles. You can also search for legal documents. Of course, you'll want to double check to make sure anything you find here meets the requirements for scholarly research (check this list), and ensure all citation information is available and accurate.

• Check the bibliographies of sources you've already found! If you're reading something crucial to your topic, chances are the writer of that work has consulted other works that will also be useful to you.

Keep It Together

• Manage your research and make a good plan for staying organized with this information.

• If you need further help with the research process (brainstorming search terms, developing a plan, etc.), please contact me for a consultation!

• Do you have tips for streamlining the research process, or have favorite resources that yield great results? Share them on our Facebook page!