Literature Search

The purposes of the search are three-fold:  to widen and deepen your understanding of your topic area  to start with a general topic and narrow the focus to specific area(s)  to determine or confirm the action strategies (i.e., counseling methods, behavior techniques, instructional ideas, school policy/procedures) that you will use in your upcoming inquiry project.

Key words: Topic Possible question Key words Counseling Methods How can I improve my counseling methods? -Elementary Counseling -RBT What are the "best practices" for counseling methods for a child with Autism? -Counseling methods -Autism and counseling Peer Tutoring How is peer-tutoring used in special education classrooms?" -Peer tutoring -Special Ed. "What are the best peer-tutoring strategies?" -Peer tutoring strategies

Creating Your Key Words Now, it is time to create your own key words. - You have written your topic area. - Identify your general question. Now: identify 3-4 key words Now you are ready for a literature search

Using the NU Library NU Library Database Search:The library offers 2 tutorials on using the library. NU Library Database Search:The library offers 2 tutorials on using the library.  The first is a quick 7 minute overview of the library website and services and it can be accessed at  The first is a quick 7 minute overview of the library website and services and it can be accessed at  The second tutorial is self-paced Library Orientation, iLibrary which is available at This tutorial introduces students to using the library website, catalog, and databases. It takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. This is very good for candidates who not familiar with scholarly research this is a good resource to teach students about the resources available through the library including finding e-books and scholarly journal articles.  Access the library resources through the library website at  Librarians are available to help students with research, using the databases, locating peer-reviewed scholarly articles, and more. Students and faculty can contact the librarians by ing or by phone during open hours at 866-NUACCESS x.7900 or "Library".  Librarians are available to help students with research, using the databases, locating peer-reviewed scholarly articles, and more. Students and faculty can contact the librarians by ing or by phone during open hours at 866-NUACCESS x.7900 or "Library".  National University Library has an extensive collection e-books, or if students prefer print they can request print books mailed to them, at no cost through our Books Direct Service  National University Library has an extensive collection e-books, or if students prefer print they can request print books mailed to them, at no cost through our Books Direct Service

Create a Search Log

Final thoughts on your search  1. A good rule of thumb is that you should obtain at least very relevant documents (not abstracts). 2. Always obtain a written copy (print) of the important material that you find. 3. By the end of your search, you have narrowed your question and topic to a specific area.  4. Save this log as it will help you in writing your annotated bibliography.