Subject headings: Pre-set tags or descriptors assigned to resources/items to describe their content, or what they are about. Enables more precise searching.
Eliminates the need to search multiple phrases and synonyms for the same concept.
Databases often provide a thesaurus, or index, of the subject headings used.
SHs appear in both the Library catalogue and databases.
Find a relevant source and the use citations to locate more related sources. Examine the bibliography, reference list and footnotes for sources used by the author. Use OCtopus or the e-journal finder to find your articles.
Why can't I just use Google or Google Scholar? Google misses content from the "deep web", including databases/articles the Library pays for (not publicly accessible). Google Scholar may bring up academic information, but you will likely be restricted from accessing content without paying, UNLESS you set up the Library Links Program with your Google Profile. Using Google Scholar with library links allows you to find information and access it FREE through OC Library.
Don't lose your articles or searches! Access from home, on-campus, or anywhere. Most databases allow you to create folders or personal accounts to save your research.
After you formulate your problem and develop and ask your research question, you need to develop a search strategy to acquire information.
Brainstorm keywords related to your topic.
Identify whether you need primary, secondary, or tertiary sources.
Search existing literature to find current and relevant articles and resources to use as evidence and to answer your research question
Use library sources for full access to research literature!
Primary Sources - The first place researchers publish their research findings. Typically in the form of journal or research articles that follow a typical research article structure. The hierarchy of evidence (the evidence pyramid) is based on the type of study and and quality of evidence. Examples: Randomized Controlled Trials, Cohort Studies, Case-Control Studies, Case Reports, Qualitative Studies
Secondary Sources - Summarizes primary research. Collates and evaluates research to answer a clinical question. Often this may involve a clinician reviewing research to answer a clinical question. Examples: Systematic Reviews, Meta-Analyses, Evidence-Based Guidelines, Some Clinical Database entries
Tertiary Sources - Health information sources that collate research literature from multiple sources. Evidence may be lacking currency compared to primary sources. Examples: Most guidelines and society statements, Most Clinical Database entries, Clinical Textbooks, Narrative Reviews
Good overview of primary & secondary sources from UViC Library
Sample topic: Is patient education effective in reducing COPD among smokers?
Identify the concepts in your topic:
Use a dictionary, thesaurus, textbook, database or CINAHL Headings to find alternative search terms:
Truncate words to increase your search results
Proximity searching decreases your search results
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