Research

When you are looking for information for a paper or project, or even in support of a personal interest, you are actually performing research.  As always, ask any of the professional librarians for help in this process.  If you are unable to contact a librarian, we have broken down the research process into four easy to follow steps outlined below.  Following this research process will not only help you with your PA work, but will be a valuable skill to take with you when you graduate. 

1.  Get Organized

Before you begin researching you must understand your assignment, develop a timetable, choose and focus a topic, write your thesis of driving question, and develop a searching vocabulary.


2. Gather Information

Your specific information needs will determine which source(s) you need to use.  Discover the universe of information sources (websites vs. books vs. magazines, etc…) to go beyond Google.  Understand the unique characteristics of each of these sources, and learn how to find these different information sources at the OWHL.   Evaluating your sources is a key aspect to gathering information.

3. Use the Information

Once you locate your information, you need to use it.  You will need to take notes, organize your information, write an outline, and put it all together.

4. Reflect on the Process

 You have turned in your project.  Was it your best work?  Were you an efficient and effective researcher?  Look back at what you did with a critical eye to see what should or could be changed.