Database Search Strategies
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Objective
I can develop effective search strategies using keywords and Boolean operators to locate relevant sources in academic databases.
Part 1 of 4
Warm-up video
George Mason University Libraries · 5:01
We don't generate video — this one is by George Mason University Libraries on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.
Part 2 of 4
Key concepts
3 concepts
- 1
When searching a library database, it is helpful to identify nouns in your research question to use as keywords.
- 2
Boolean operators such as "and", "or", and "not" can be used to connect keywords and refine search results.
- 3
Subject terms in database records can provide disciplinary jargon and additional keywords for further searching.
Part 3 of 4
Practice
10 questions
What is the first step in finding relevant sources in academic databases, according to the tutorial?
Explain the purpose of using Boolean operators in search strings.
Part 4 of 4
Exit ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Using the keywords 'anxiety', 'college students', and 'music', construct a search query using Boolean operators that will find articles that discuss either the effect of music on anxiety OR the effect of music on college students, but NOT articles that discuss music therapy. Write out the search query as it would appear in a database search bar.”
Sample answer included in the free materials
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