SPCC Library Workshops

Utilizing SPCC databases is an efficient way to ensure you are using credible sources for your research assignments. Just like any other skill set, learning how to efficiently and effectively research takes time and practice. The more research you do, the more comfortable you'll become with searching, selecting, and evaluating information. Utilize these workshop resources to help you search with success!

Use Boolean operators AND, OR, and NOT to narrow or broaden your search results.

• Use AND to:
  • Narrow your results
  • Inform the database that all search terms must be present in search results
  • EX: rivers AND conservation
    • Now your search results will be narrowed to only include items which discuss both rivers and conservation!
• Use OR to:
  • Broaden your results by connecting two or more search terms
  • Inform the database that any of your search terms can be present in search results
  • EX: rivers OR conservation
    • Now your search results will be broadened to include any items which discuss rivers or conservation!
• Use NOT to:
  • Narrow your results by excluding specific search terms
  • Inform the database to omit items from your search results which discuss specific search terms
  • EX: rivers NOT conservation
    • Now your search results will be narrowed to exclude any items which discuss conservation in association with rivers!

Many databases offer additional features to assist you during your research. Utilize citation tools, the "spider web" feature in Credo or the "subject" terms & "related items" features in ProQuest to assist you in finding the most efficient path to researching topics.

When conducting academic research on hot topics:

• Choose your sources carefully (avoid misinformation)

• Understand the author's bias or agenda.

• Focus on the facts in your argument.

• Recognize the emotional aspect of discussing controversial topics.

Below are some databases which may give you some ideas for selecting a hot topic.