The document provides guidance on finding and using information for academic work. It outlines 3 steps: 1) identify keywords from the assignment, 2) think of alternative terms for the keywords, and 3) use the keywords and terms to search books, websites, and journals for relevant information. It then explains why different sources may be best for an overview, official information, up-to-date details, or easy introductions. The document warns that poor use of information can result from an overreliance on non-academic websites or too few sources, leading to lower marks.

1. Finding & using
information in
your work
Peter Coyne - Information Adviser
Falmer Library

2. Aims of this session...
• Welcome...
• Books? Websites? Journals?
• Improve your searching
• Improve your marks?/Save you time
An Information
05/12/2011 Services Presentation

3. An assignment...
“Identify and discuss different theories of
child development , specifically in relation to
communication”

4. Step One: Find the keywords...
“Identify and discuss different theories of
child development , specifically in relation to
communication”

5. Step Two: Think about alternative terms
Communication
language, writing, speech, talking, communicating,
communicate
Child development
children , child, boys, girls

6. Step Three: Use your terms in
•Books: (via the Library Catalogue/Online Library)
•Web: (Google Advanced Search)
•Journals: (via Online Library / Electronic Journals)

7. Why use what when???
Books Overview, history, theories
Internet Official info (e.g. government policy)
Journals Up to date info. Also look at specific issues
Audio-visual Easier introduction to issues. Accurate?
Newspapers Up to date news. Bias?
An Information
05/12/2011 Services Presentation

8. Poor use of information...
Two problems:
• Increase in use of non-academic websites;
• Over-reliance on too few sources;
Resulting in – lower marks/grade