Academic coursework & Research projects
For academic coursework and research project assignments, it is best to use scholarly or professional resources that are reliable, accurate, and valid. Generally, these types of resources are books and articles that are reviewed before publication but may also include media and websites from authoritative organizations and institutions.
When you conduct a research project or write a paper, you will read articles to see what others have done and then build upon the work created by scholars and professionals.
Articles are found in:
- Scholarly Journals - A scholarly journal publishes authoritative research articles by academics or experts in a discipline. Scholars share their research with each other through the articles they publish in these journals. This is called scholarly communication. The articles submitted for publication undergo a rigorous review process before being accepted for publication; many use a system called peer-review, that is they are evaluated by other experts who determine if it is an authoritative, valid, original and significant contribution to the field of study.
- Trade Journals - Professionals in a particular industry share their knowledge and experience with each other in journals and magazines that are usually edited and published by a professional trade association. These articles report on trends, events, innovations, and provide advice for professionals from experts in the industry.
What type of source do you need?
Primary sources
Primary sources are the raw materials of research. Types of materials can include items such as manuscripts, documents, diaries, letters; audio and visual media such as photographs, sketches, recordings of interviews; and physical objects (artifacts of material culture) such as tools, utensils, pots, clothes, quilts. Learn more about primary sources.
Secondary Sources
Secondary Sources are the original published writings that analyze and interpret primary sources, typically, books and articles in magazines, newspapers, scholarly journals, and professional and trade journals.
Tertiary Sources
Tertiary Sources are publications that summarize or, in other ways, present the information found in secondary sources. These include textbooks, encyclopedias and other reference resources. These are useful for selecting a topic and getting background information, definitions of terms and concepts, and brief descriptions of key aspects of topics.
TIPS
- Use Catalogs to Find Books
Begin by conducting a keyword search in the library catalog. Review the search results and identify relevant subject headings. Be sure to note key citation details (author, title, etc.), location information (such as the call number, library, or eBook format), and the circulation status (whether the book is available or checked out).
- Use Databases to Find Periodical Articles
Search academic databases to find articles related to your topic. Many databases provide full-text access to the articles. Most of these databases can be accessed both on-campus and remotely through your campus network, providing flexibility in your research process.
Use search engines and subject-specific directories to locate relevant resources online. However, be cautious: the quality and reliability of information on the internet can vary greatly. Always review the Evaluation Guidelines to ensure the credibility and accuracy of the sources you use.
