Research in Education
Tips for Research in Education
1. A keyword search is usually a good start for research in any online database, such as the library catalog or a subject index like Academic Search Premier.
2. When your keyword search finds some citations for books or articles relevant to your topic, always look at the descriptors or subject headings—they may give you ideas of different search terms for your topic. Descriptors/subject headings in online databases are usually hot links, so that you create a narrower, more specific search by clicking on the descriptor.
3. Gather a few articles or books and read them before doing more research. As you understand your topic better, you may have different words and concepts for searching.
4. As you read, check bibliographies and footnotes for more sources. This can be very helpful; you can take advantage of the author’s research.
5. Evaluate web sites carefully for accuracy, timeliness and authority. When was it last updated? Who is responsible for the content? What is the perspective or agenda of the sponsoring organization?
6. Begin research EARLY.
7. Ask reference librarians for help with any research question, large or small. You can visit or call the library reference desk X3227. You may also make an appointment with Ginny Hopcroft, the Education Dept library liaison, via email ghopcrof@bowdoin.edu or phone X3298.
