Why Can't I Just Google?

This video will give you an idea of why just using Google isn't enough to get an A on your research paper.

The best way to find accurate, reliable, and scholarly information is to do several searches using many resources.  The library gives you access to many resources via the library page.

Let's use buying a new computer as an example. If you were thinking of making a big purchase you might go to the store and look at the computers for sale, talk to friends about their computers, read reviews online, read PC magazine or Consumer Reports, talk with a sales rep, or post something on your FB page asking for recommendations.  There are many ways you would seek out information.  When all that information comes back to you, you would evaluate it and make your final decision.   The salesperson at the store might have a bias in selling you a certain computer if they make a larger commission on one model.  Your cousin with limited computer skills might not be the best resource to use. A friend who is pro-PC and anti-Mac might present only their view.  Likewise the pro-Mac and anti-PC friend would have a bias.  Reviews that seem to be unbiased and provide objective information might be better to use.  Ultimately, it falls on you to read, examine, think, and evaluate the information to decide if it is credible, reliable, and unbiased.

In college, students are asked to write research papers using specific formats and guidelines (APA or MLA style). A research paper follows a specific format and style manuals provide the layout instructions (see OWL Purdue Online Writing Lab for excellent instructions and helpful tips).  The library also has copies of the APA and MLA manuals.  When you are ready to create your references list you can use Noodlebib to help make the process much easier.

In research, scholarly articles that are published in peer reviewed journals are a good way to ensure that the information you use has been reviewed and evaluated by experts in the field.  You find these articles by searching databases.  The databases are provided by companies like Ebsco, ProQuest and many others.  Databases provide a clear interface and an easy way to search for information.  Libraries purchase databases based on the needs of the students and programs at their institutions.  Databases are not free.  Annual subscriptions are paid to vendors.   Databases come with many rules and limitations.  Only NMCC students can use the databases our library purchases.  When you are on campus, a simple click gets you directly to the search screen.  Off-campus you will be asked to authenticate your NMCC status by entering your 14 digit student ID (you find this on the front of your student ID).

The next time you need to find information for your research paper, visit the library web page and click on one of the many database links you see there.   Most of the databases provide full-text and you can have the article in a matter of seconds.   It is fast, easy, and best of all, what you need to complete your paper.

If you are having trouble finding what you need, connect with someone in the library for assistance.   We'll show you how to get things done quickly so you can move on to your next project.

Seriously, why waste your time searching online and citing all the sources your instructor doesn't want to see cited?  Find what is relevant and useful   The outcome will be a better grade and you'll learn more about critically evaluating information.  

Begin by getting a nice overview of your topic. Start with a Google search or any search engine you like.  Maybe try Google Scholar.  Read a Wikipedia article and look at the references at the end of the article. Search a few library databases and retrieve some scholarly articles.  Look for books and e-books.  Find some podcasts or videos.  Maybe consider DVDs or other formats.   To build a good paper with substantial information to support your topic and thesis, you will need to draw from many sources.

The information on the library page will make it so you can find things quickly.   Try it and give us your feedback.

Next post:  Description of our databases.  Marvel! and more.