Research Methods

Search Skills

Learn how to pick the right database, how to select good search terms, how to formulate a more precise or more complete search. Improve your search tactics, whatever database or search engine you are using.

  • Selecting databases (Not yet available)
  • Selecting terms. How to select/discover good or better search terms.
  • Recent changes in LC subject headings. Including headings for God and the Bible.
  • Search tactics (Not yet available)
  • Assignments and drills. Exercises to help you develop better search skills. Includes some homework assignments for RS101, DM102, BS1004 and other courses.

Database Manuals and Tutorials

Connecting to Databases

BIBLOS

EBSCO databases

OCLC FirstSearch databases

SeminaryLibrary.com ebooks

Other Databases/Systems

Research Theory

  • Bibliography on [Secondary, Simple] Research Method.
  • Introduction to Primary/Original Research. Need some help beginning original research? Here Is Some Guidance from URIM and THUMMIM. This essay was written to help doctoral students think about research strategies. Section one distinguishes between primary research (original, creative research) and secondary research. Section two explains why the familiar literature review model of research is not an adequate guide to doctoral work. Section three recommends the hypothesis-validation model of research and suggests a technique for formulating research strategies. This approach to research deemphasizes generic methods and stresses problem-specific methods for primary research. (Not yet available; scheduled for Fall 2007.)
  • Research FAQ. Questions about how to research and what tools to use. (Not yet available; scheduled for Summer 2008.)

Writing

Research Aids

Here is a potpourri of practical tips and aids to research.