Selecting Keywords
- Break down phrases
- Search Google, Wikipedia, and the Databases for related terms, articles, and suggested searches
- Look for synonyms
- Subject Terms
- Keep a Running List of your search terms
- Use the Advanced Searching feature to search for more than one keyword at once
Boolean Searching
Selecting Articles for your Topic
- Scan through the title
- Check the abstract for topic relevance
- Look at the Subject Terms
- Is it recent?
- How will you tie this in with the assignment?
Library Catalog
- Library CatalogThe catalog contains the library's systems selection of books, ebooks, DVDS, and audiobooks. You can use the filters bar to limit your results by availability, location, subject terms, and date. The subject filter is also a great place to get keywords for your topic.
Recommended Library Databases
- Academic Search Complete This link opens in a new windowThis is our biggest, most comprehensive database for journal and magazine articles.
Expand your search to more than one EBSCO database by clicking on the Choose Databases link above the search box. When the pop-up window comes up, either Select All or select individual databases you'd like to add to your search. Then click OK and you'll be directed back to the search screen to start searching.
Includes:
Journal of Politics [1 year delay]
Please make sure to check the "Full Text option" - JSTOR This link opens in a new windowRelevant Journals:
American Political Science Review [4 year delay]
American Journal of Political Science [ 2 year delay]
Make sure to check the Full text filter box to access article that the library has.
Multimedia
- Opposing Viewpoints (Gale In Context) This link opens in a new window
(GALE) Gale In Context: Opposing Viewpoints is the premier online resource covering today's hottest social issues, from capital punishment to immigration to marijuana. Content includes viewpoints, reference articles, infographics, news, images, video, audio, and more. A category on the National Debate Topic provides quick and easy access to content on frequently studied and discussed issues. Periodical content covers current events, news and commentary, economics, environmental issues, political science, and more.
