This document provides an overview of research strategies including basic search techniques, selecting appropriate keywords and subject headings, choosing relevant databases, managing citations, and getting additional help. It discusses using Boolean operators like AND and OR to narrow or broaden searches, as well as search fields and proximity searching. Tips are provided for effective searching, including picking the right database, using consistent terminology, searching multiple databases, keeping track of citations, and seeking help if frustrated. Contact information is given for the instructor to assist with research questions.

1. Sociology 656
Social Theory
Research

2. Today we will cover….
Basic Search Strategy
Narrowing and Expanding Searches
Keywords vs. Subject Headings
Selecting the right database
Managing your citations
Finding additional help

3. Basic Search Strategy
Narrows a search
Both terms appear in same record
AND
Terms have different meanings
example: internet AND socialization
Broadens a search
Either term may appear in record
OR
Terms have similar meanings
example: (viewing OR watching)

4. Narrowing and expanding
Can look for multiple endings of a
word or plurals
asterisk
theor* theory, theories, theoretical
Allows you to specify how close you
want your terms to appear in the
record
Proximity social w1 identity = social identity = “social identity”

5. Narrowing and expanding
Keywords Searches: title, abstract,
Default fields subjects and in some
cases the full text of the
record
Subject Searches: only the subject
Descriptor line-This makes your
searches more specific
and better defined

6. Before we start doing research
Refworks
First get a Refworks Account
Sign up for the account at refworks.com
Set up a folder and we are ready to save articles
Remember- even if the article is full text- put it
in your refworks file so you can have the
citation

7. Dissecting your topic
5 ways to start your search effectively
1. Pick the correct database
2. Match your terminology to
the database
3. Search more than one
database
4. Keep track of your citations
5. Contact me for help BEFORE
you get frustrated!

8. I am still confused…

9. Additional Help
Tiffini Travis
Email
ttravis@csulb.edu
Office Hours
Listed Here