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Begin your research journey at Folsom Lake College by identifying your topic and creating a list of relevant keywords. Utilize reliable sources such as library books, e-books, and databases for comprehensive information. Access databases like Academic Search Premier and ERIC for scholarly articles and current research. Use the internet wisely by narrowing your search to trustworthy domains (.edu, .gov). Don’t hesitate to consult librarians for assistance—they are ready to help with your research needs via email or phone, ensuring you have the resources necessary for academic success.
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Library Research Folsom Lake College
Research Process • Begin by thinking about your topic and creating a list of key words or phrases that you can use as search terms. • Keywords: words or phrases that describe your topic or are specific examples within a more general topic • Be sure to jot down synonyms or related ideas • As you begin to search for information, look for subject words or other related terms that can be added to your search to narrow your focus
Research Process • Books : • Reliable sources for general information and background. • LOIS – the library catalog • Books, e-books and media • You can request materials from other libraries in the district.
Research Process • Online Resources: • Research Databases: Electronic collections of articles from magazines, journals, newspapers, e-books, etc. • Internet: A variety of resources from often unknown resources
Research Process • Articles from Research Databases • Easily accessible online • Often more current than books • Reliable information resources with known authors • Scholarly Articles easily identified • Scholarly articles are usually longer and more in-depth and present or analyze current research. These articles are written by and for professionals in order to communicate current research and trends in that field.
Research Databases • Access from off campus requires your student ID number and the unified password (also used for eServices, iMail and D2L) • Access the databases from the library home page. • Some useful databases are: • Academic Search Premier (EBSCO) • ERIC – Educational Resource Information Center (EBSCO) • Vocational and Career Collection (EBSCO)
Research Process • Internet • Easier to use when you can specify exactly what you are looking for • Narrow search to .edu or .gov domains to locate valuable, trustworthy sites • Carefully evaluate everything you find • Who wrote this information? • How current is it? • Are there links or references to find further information?
Reference Services • Your Folsom Lake College librarians are here to help with your research needs! • Email us using the Ask a Librarian form on the Library website. Librarians will respond to your email, usually within 24 hours. • Call the reference desk at (916) 608-6612 whenever the library is open.