A.C. Buehler Library: ENG 106 Composition II : Start with Reference

In the Beginning....

There are lots of different ways of starting the process of doing research.

One place to start is with General Resources.

General Resources are encyclopedias, handbooks, dictionaries, and other reference sources that give you an overview or broad picture of your topic. You should consider starting your research process with General Sources if:

You are starting research on an unfamiliar topic
You need some background information on your topic
You find "holes" in your information as you do other research and want to fill them in

General Resources in the A.C. Buehler Library

Credo Reference
An online collection of over 1000 reference books, covering a wide range of subjects, from art to technology. Credo Reference also includes a selection of specialized reference books from Sage Publishing.
Gale eBooks (formerly GVRL, Gale Virtual Reference Library)
Contains the full-text of hundreds of print reference titles and series, allowing you access to key reference sources without having to be in the library. Includes a variety of topics, and all titles in the Scribner's and Twayne's author series. Most Gale eBook titles can also be accessed through I-Share.
Sage Knowledge
A variety of encyclopedias and other reference materials from SAGE publications.

Another helpful source...

CQ Researcher
Covers current and controversial issues from 1991-present. In-depth reports provide summaries, analysis, and links to additional resources.

Here are a couple of other suggestions for sources to use as you begin to explore a topic. CQ Researcher is a great source for current events topics.

The Library also has several book series:

Opposing Viewpoints
Global Viewpoints
Current Controversies
Taking Sides

which are also good for beginning some research as well as exploring a range of possibilities for research questions and argument theses. I've linked to examples for the book series, but you can search for your topic in the catalog as well. Here's how:

Use Advanced Search
Put your topic words in the first box
Put the books series title (Opposing Viewpoints, Current Controverises, Global Viewpoints, etc) in the 2nd box
Drop open the "Search by" menu and choose Series Title

Medical Marijuana--Opposing Viewpoints
"Each volume in the Opposing Viewpoints Series could serve as a model...not only providing access to a wide diversity of opinions, but also simulating readers to do further research for group discussion and individual interest." (Amazon.com)
Biodiversity
The Current Controversies series examines today's most important social and political issues.
Cybercrime
Each anthology in the new Global Viewpoints series delivers contemporary perspectives on the featured issue -- with the majority of the material reflecting stances of countries other than the United States
Taking Sides: Clashing views in mass media and society
Taking Sides volumes present current controversial issues in a debate-style format designed to stimulate student interest and develop critical thinking skills.

General Resources Exercise

Choose one of the three electronic reference databases above. Do a search for your topic. Complete the attached worksheet, answering the questions based on your results list.

General Resources Exercise

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Peg Cook

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Subjects:Communication & Media, Digital Media, English, Learning Center, Philosophy, Sociology & Criminal Justice, Theatre & Dance