Library Resources to Support Your Research Topic

Kelly Bennett

Reference & Instruction Librarian

kelly-bennett@berkeleycollege.edu

Using Databases

Always log in through Blackboard first.

Click the Library tab.

Select Databasesfrom the Research & Explore drop-down.

If you know the name of the database you want to use, you can click on the A-Z List.

You can also use CQ Researcher or Opposing Viewpoints as starting points.

Quick notes on ProQuest Central:• Do a basic search using the main search box.• Always make sure full-text is checked.• Narrow your search as needed.

There are many ways to narrow your search. Explore these.

Quick notes on CQ Researcher:• Use the keyword search

box or browse topics.• CQ provides access to

reports, not articles.• These reports are

comprehensive, giving you in depth information about a given topic/question.

• Be careful of the dates. Some reports are on the older side.

Click to view an in-depth report on the issue with an overview, timeline, background, statistics, figures, etc.

Be careful!15 years is a

bit old for this type of report.

Quick notes on Opposing Viewpoints:• You can search in the box with keywords• Or browse the issues…• There are many issues! See if you find

one that relates to your topic.

Browse all the issues, or select a category to narrow your search.

OK, now what?

1. Download the Research Log Worksheet first and complete is as you work on your research.

2. Explore two of the databases mentioned in this PowerPoint.

ProQuest Central

Opposing Viewpoints in Context

CQ Researcher

3. Do a web search and explore websites related to your issue.

What is the domain (.gov, .edu, .com, .org, etc.)?

Do they seem reliable?

4. Post in the discussion board any questions or concerns you may have about doing research. Respond to your classmates and librarian’s comments.