1. Types of Research Literature
Primary sources
Contain complete descriptions of collected data and analyses.
Usually appear in professional journals.
Subject to peer-review process.
Secondary sources
Contain only summaries or interpretations of research.
Includes textbooks, Annual Review of Psychology, possible web sources.

2. Conducting the Literature Search
Start at broad, general level and progress to more specific levels.
Secondary resources
Primary resources
Start with newest available resources and move backwards.

3. Using Computer Databases
Avemaria.edu  Majors & Programs  Library  Electronic Resources
Choose a database (e.g., Academic Search Complete)  Advanced Search
Key terms (e.g., video games & gender stereotypes as “subject terms”)
Select peer-review
If not full-text: Information Services  Interlibrary Loan  Article Request Form