1. Explore research topic
Before searching a database you need to clearly understand the topic you're researching. Finding background information helps build that understanding.
Background information helps you to identify keywords related to your topic. These keywords are used to search databases for academic articles that are relevant to your topic.
Sources of background information
Below are different sources of information that can be used to obtain background information on a chosen topic.
Databases
Can provide a credible source for background information to get you started. Resources can provide keywords that you can use in other searches when looking at analysing a chosen topic. Resources in databases often contain a reference lists that may lead you to more sources.
Click on the databases below and search for your chosen topic:
Unit Reading List & Prescribed Texts
Provide credible and relevant information on architects, artists, architecture, genre, period, etc.
Click on the links below and type in your Unit code for information on your chosen topic:
Books and e-books
Resources contain authoritative and detailed information on a specific topic. Contain references that can be followed up.
Click on the Library catalogue below and search your chosen topic:
Audiovisual materials
Resources that contain credible and relevant background information, presented in an engaging format.
Click on the audiovisual databases below and discover what information they have on your chosen topic:
Websites
It is possible to find some useful information using internet search engines. However, not all information on the web is reliable.
As it is possible for anyone to publish on the web. You should always check the authority, relevance and credibility of the web source. Beware of travel sites or blogs which are trying to sell you a product.
Activity
Look at the topic below and click on the words that you think are the key concepts. Then check your answer.
Activity overview
This interactive activity shows a research question where the user can click on the words that they consider to be the key concepts.
Read the question below and think about which words are the key concepts.
Research question
What are the design factors affecting energy efficiency in residential buildings?
Activity: identify key concepts from a question
Which words did you identify as the key concepts from the research question provided above? You can check the answers below.
List of the highlighted key concepts
- design factors
- energy efficiency
- residential buildings