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EDUC 2305 - David - Fall 2024: Before You Search

Why Background Information Matters

Background research serves many purposes.

  • If you are unfamiliar with the topic, it provides a good overview of the subject matter.
  • It helps you to identify important facts related to your topic -- terminology, dates, events, history, and names or organizations.
  • It can help you to refine your topic.
  • Background research might lead you to bibliographies that you can use to find additional sources of information on your topic.

Select Background Databases

Your Topic

Having trouble thinking of a thesis or dissertation topic? 

  • Scan books, journals and newspapers for broad topic ideas.
  • Look at "hot topic" databases, such as The CQ Researchers Online, which feature articles on current events and controversial issues.
  • Surf the websites and resources listed on the library's Research Guides.
  • Discuss potential topics with your instructor, a librarian or a classmate.
  • Find a mentor in the field willing to help you brainstorm.

Before selecting a topic or starting your research, be sure you understand your assignment and its requirements. Discuss your topic and the following with your advisor:

  • How much work will be required to cover it adequately?
  • Do you need to include specific types of sources? What will you do if you have chosen a topic that does not have much written about it yet?
  • How much time do you have to research?
  • Is currency of information important?
Still want to brainstorm?  Check with the Graduate Research Librarian or ask for help at the Reference Desk.  We are all here to help you succeed!

Keywords

Before you can begin searching for information in a print or online resource, you need to identify keywords related to your topic. Key terminology can be easily be found by scanning:

  • Your initial research questions
  • Books and articles used when conducting background research
  • Bibliographies found at the end of books and articles

If you are still struggling, then try these suggestions:

  • Most online databases offer a thesaurus or suggested subject terms - explore them
  • Find pictures related to your topic, then describe the picture
  • Brainstorm keywords with a librarian, your instructor, or a friend

Developing Your Research Question

 

YOUR TOPIC: __________________________________ 

GENRE:______________________

Once you have identified your topic, think about questions your research might help you answer. In other words, state your topic as a question. Remember, your question may change as you learn more about your topic. That’s OK!

Write what you THINK you know about your topic.

Develop 3-5 more questions about your topic.

Use the chart below to brainstorm keywords for your topic. Hint: use keywords from the description and questions above.

                        

 

Topic

Similar Words

Broader Terms

Narrower Terms

Related Words

Example

Obesity

Overweight, Fat, Overeater

Bariatric

Eating disorder

Diabetes, Heart Disease, Weight Gain

Fill-in your topic & keywords

Note: The keywords you choose will become essential for searching catalogs, websites, and databases. Keywords can have a profound influence on the results of your research. Using the “right” word will speed up the research process while the “wrong” word can bring to it to a complete halt.

Staff LADR