Using CCC Library Research Databases

1. Using CCC Library Research Databases updated august 2010 Coconino Community College

2. A database is an organized collection of information that can be searched based on a variety of keywords and subject terms. Online databases are available via the internet 24/7. Research databases contain thousands of full-text magazine, newspaper and scholarly journal articles to view, email and print in a variety of subject areas. Although the databases are accessed through the CCC Library website, they are not an Internet source. Many library research databases require that students have an ID to use them because colleges pay for these online resources. For more about how databases differ from the Internet, visit �Databases vs. The Internet�   What are Research Databases?

3. From the library website www.coconino.edu/library (also a Quicklink off the main college website) Go to the �CCC Online Library Resources� page: http://library.nau.edu/coconinolibraryresources/ You will be accessing the online library resources through a joint CCC/NAU library webpage. Use your CometID to login from off campus. NOTE: To access the databases off-campus, use your CometID. If you need assistance with your CometID, contact the CCC Help Desk at (928) 226-4357 (HELP) or email helpdesk@coconino.edu� Where to find the CCC Library Research Databases?

4. Write down your research question in Word or in a notebook. Then add keywords or terms that you might use when searching for articles that would answer your question. Scan articles to find words and phrases to use as keywords. Often using technical terms or discipline-specific keywords yields more of the type of articles you need. As you read articles, look for synonyms (similar words) and other language that you had not previously used. View the bibliographic record to find subject terms � use the subject terms to find similar articles. Create a search record in Word or on paper to record the search terms you�ve used. Or, save your searches in the databases by creating a personal account. NOTE: Using keywords and specific subject terms in your search will increase your chances of finding relevant search results. Start with the broadest terms and then narrow your search terms as you go forward. Crafting your Search

5. Example Keyword List & Research Journal 

6. NOTE: Research databases have differing interfaces with features and options located in different places. Explore each database interface for the best search results. Click on the name of the database If off campus, enter your CometID and password Find the search box Enter one of your search terms, usually starting with a broad term and then narrowing your topic as you discover what subtopics are available and interesting to you Try the advanced search options to narrow your results by date range, peer-review/scholarly publications, or to search by subject term. Check the database thesaurus to find out what terms are used for your topics, this will help in finding articles that match your topic area. Using a Database�the Basics

7. Sample Database Search Screen (EBSCOhost)