- Similar to many of my classmates, I am using Syracuse libraries as a main source. However I am also using the New York public library to search for sources as well. When searching for an article for the unit 1 assignment, I found it best to search for key words instead of long phrases. When I typed in key words, I found the articles were more relevant and consistent with what I was looking for. Whereas when I typed in long phrases, the articles differed drastically. So I am going to continue to keep my searches short with key words. Also using advanced search features such as publication date and content type, helps make the search a little easier. Content type helps narrow down the type of writing piece you want and publication date is important because you want recent information rather than outdated sources.
- My topic is about diversifying the education system and more specifically the process schools go through when they are screening and accepting students. When looking for primary sources, I have looked at mostly interviews with students and faculty for both private and public schools. Looking at the diversity between the two and the different viewpoints that are being offered. I have looked at articles about screening and all about the process of it for students and how it is different depending on the type of school and where it is located. When looking for scholarly articles, I referred back to Syracuse libraries as I have found a couple regarding the topic but will need to do further research. When doing this search, I hope to find people who are in the field of education or know a lot about it and are able to speak and contribute many viewpoints to the issue at hand.
Writing and organizational cultures
I also think that key words work best when searching for a valuable article. I agree, the advanced features are so helpful because they allow you to narrow down your search. My topic is also about education, but my search is about inclusive schooling, and how it benefits people with and without disabilities. I think that your topic will be really interesting to read about! It is a great idea to include articles that have expert opinions, I want to do that too!
Hey Justin, I’ve been struggling to find a primary source for my topic with SU libraries. So I appreciate your post including another possible database that I could use. The New York public library sounds like it is a great place to look. I also think that your idea for searching for key words instead of phrases is useful.
I have myself started to use that method and I agree that it works better. By the way, I think your topic of university admissions screening is very interesting. I will certainly be looking forward to checking out what your findings are!