Appendix
Appendix
MLA Format from Winnebago High School Library
CRAP Test– Evaluating Websites
Scholarship as Conversation Worksheet – Worksheet to map out the contents of an article.
Quick Tip Booklet-Identifying Scholarly Sources
Capstone Poster Example: The Pollution Crisis. Kelly Contreras. 2020
Capstone Presentation Example: Ethical Acceptance of Drone Usage. Malik Jones. 2020
Keeping track of your searches
Rarely do researchers find the information needed to appropriately fulfill an information need or to address the complexities of a research question in one pass. Most often, initial search strategies are revised (sometimes repeatedly) and steps in the research process are revisited. Because conducting research is an iterative process (one that circles back on itself, and aims to find increasingly relevant information as a search strategy becomes more focused), keeping track of your search strategy as it evolves can be useful. One way of doing so is by maintaining a research log.
What is a research log?
A research log is a way of tracking your process of finding information. It is a record of the things you have done, the steps you have taken, and the strategies you have used to learn more about your topic and to locate information that will be useful for your research.
Why is a research log useful?
Keeping a record of your research activities can help you with things like:
- assessing source choice
- managing research time
- documenting sources you use in your work
- recognizing what you are looking for and how that may have changed during your research process
- reflecting on what you have done
- identifying next steps and
- generating ideas for and planning future research.
But, research logs can also prevent you from replicating searches you have already done and thus duplicating your efforts.
How do I keep a research log?
There is no one best way to keep track of your searches. A research log could be a chart with labeled columns or notes that you keep in a designated place (in a physical notebook or in a note taking app on a computer or mobile device, for example). Different methods work well for varying purposes and I recommend that you choose the approach that works best for you. Keep in mind that a research log is only useful if it’s actually used. So whichever method you choose, make sure that it’s easy enough for you to access that recording your search process and results becomes a habit. If a method of recording this information is too cumbersome, you’re likely to avoid doing it.
Generally speaking, a research log often includes the following key elements:
- the date when you conducted your search
- where your searched (i.e., on the open web? in a library database?)
- the precise search terms you used, how you searched, and any additional limiters or parameters specified
- how many and what kinds of resources you found
- ideas to try next time
Though, as with the method of keeping track, feel free to experiment with recording the pieces of information that are of most use to you and your research process.
Literature Review Matrix Example
