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Module 1 : Choosing Sources

Module 1 | Choosing Sources

This module covers types of information sources you can use for your topic. When you have completed this section of Searchpath you should be able to:
 

  • identify the types of information sources and their characteristics

  • identify methods to find information

  • select the most appropriate information source
Module 2 : Creating a Search Strategy

Module 2 | Creating a Search Strategy

This module covers topic selection and how to create a search strategy. When you have completed this section of Searchpath you should be able to:
 

  • chose a topic

  • broaden or narrow a topic

  • identify keywords for a topic (including brainstorming)

  • distinguish "keyword" from "subject" searching

  • use connectors (Boolean operators), phrase searching, nesting, and truncation and wildcards in keyword searching
Module 3 : Using the Library Catalog

Module 3 | Using the Library Catalog

This module covers how to search the CSN Library Catalog. When you have completed this section of Searchpath you should be able to:
 

  • locate the library catalog on the CSN web site

  • identify what kinds of resources are listed in the library catalog

  • identify the various elements in a library catalog record

  • use a library catalog call number to find where a book or other materials are shelved in the library

  • use different library catalog search options: keyword, subject, author and title

  • check what your instructor has put in the library as Course Reserve Materials for your class

  • View the items you have checked out from the library
Module 4 : Finding Articles in Research Databases

Module 4 | Finding Articles in Research Databases

This module covers how to find articles in research databases. When you have completed this section of Searchpath you should be able to:
 

  • distinguish between magazines, journals, and newspapers

  • choose an appropriate research database

  • use a research database to find relevant articles
Module 5 : Using the Web

Module 5 | Using the Web

This module covers how to find information on the Web. When you have completed this section of Searchpath you should be able to:
 

  • understand the organization of the Internet

  • identify the major types of web sites

  • use subject directories and search engines to locate information on the Web

  • use special techniques to improve your search results

  • evaluate web site information for reliability, accuracy, and quality
Module 6 : Citing Sources

Module 6 | Citing Sources

This module covers citing sources, plagiarism, and copyright. When you have completed this section of Searchpath you should be able to:
 

  • determine when to cite sources used in your work

  • identify the different parts of a citation

  • list ways to avoid plagiarism

  • understand the reasons for copyright law
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