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Basic Research Method
- Start with an article in a scholarly encyclopedia for the field and read about your topic.
- As you read decide how you want to focus your research
- From that encyclopedia’s bibliography collect relevant articles, books and other resources Consult other appropriate topical reference sources
- Consult indexes for articles and chapters of books
- Consult your library’s catalogs for books and other materials.
Resource Evaluation Criteria
"SATBs"
- What is the scope of the source? What is covered? What is omitted?
- Who is the author or editorial board? Are they knowledgeable in the field?
- Timeliness: when was the resource written? Is it up-to-date? Does it include new scholarship?
- What is their bias?
- Is the source for a scholarly or popular audience?