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Library Research for English 103, Omidsalar, Spring 2023

Online Librarian

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Annette Young
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Contact:
714-484-7000 ext. 48195
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Today's outcomes:

1. Library services available online:

2. Find research resources relevant to your assignment

Databases & the Research Process:  

  • Search "Watchmen" in most databases to find articles about the text, then use keywords - short describing words - for your specific topic. This is going to vary greatly, depending on the topic/theme you go with. For example, if you are focusing on the historical elements of Watchmen, some keywords could include: 
    • cold war, arms race, Russia-United States relations (see also, Soviet Union-United States relations), Richard Nixon, Vietnam War, Kitty Genovese, red scare, Committee on Un-American Activities
  • Quick Tip! If you are comparing Watchmen to the film or video game adaptations and can't find any articles in the library databases, try broadening your search. For example, instead of searching "Watchmen" and "The End is Nigh" you might try searching "Comic books" and "video game adaptations"
The databases you use for this assignment will greatly vary, depending on your topic. Start with the databases listed below, or check in with a librarian if you need more help.

Web Research:

Searching for credible information will require a critical eye. Below are some helpful tips on how to navigate search results online.

SIFT is an online evaluation strategy, developed by digital literacy expert Michael Caulfield (Washington State University Vancouver), to help you judge whether or not online content can be trusted for credible and reliable information. SIFT is quick and simple 4-step process, and can be applied to all types of online content.

SIFT stands for:

STOP

INVESTIGATE THE SOURCE

FIND BETTER COVERAGE

TRACE CLAIMS, QUOTES, AND MEDIA BACK TO THEIR ORIGINAL CONTEXT

SIFT Method logos

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