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Finding background information using general encyclopedic resources is relatively easy.
We’ll demonstrate this process using Gale Virtual Reference Library, a multi-disciplinary database.
Start at the library’s home page.
Navigate to the tab “Articles/Databases” and select “Databases by Subject.”
Select “Gale Virtual Reference Library.”
Notice all of the disciplines this database covers.
Type your keywords in the search box. Click the “magnifying glass” to search.
Type your keywords in the search box. Click the “magnifying glass” to search.
The different publication titles provide an indication of the perspectives you will encounter.
The articles from the Gale Encyclopedia of Mental Health will most likely provide straightforward, factual information
while the articles in the Encyclopedia of Recreation will give you a different view.
It’s a good idea to pay attention to the other subject terms that accompany this search.
You can always use these keywords to conduct searches in other sources, such as the library’s catalog.
When you are ready, select a couple of articles and read them to find background information.
As you engage in this process, start thinking about answers to these questions:
Who? What? Where? When? Why? & How?
These should inform your decision making as you move further with your research.
To save time, you should email yourself the article and jot down the citation information.
Even though the citation is not completely accurate, having the basic information will allow you to create the necessary citation later on.
It’s good practice to gather these types of information while they are readily available, and you should do it for all sources you encounter.