Using the Gale Databases
Preparing to Use the Gale Databases
It is important to be prepared before you begin to use the Gale Databases. Not having some kind of plan before you start using these databases can lead to frustration because there is just so much information available.
The full list of Gale Databases on the Somerset Middle School Library website has about 48 different databases across a wide range of subjects. Some databases are designed to address very specific subjects while others are designed for more general use. You will need to decide which database or group of databases are right for you. It is a good idea to get some basic information once you have your assignment and have decided on a topic. This background information will give you an idea of what you want to look for in the databases. One way to get general information outside of your textbook is to use World Book Online or another commercial encyclopedia available to you either online or in print (Yes, print encyclopedias are still very useful!!). Encyclopedias are very good at presenting general overviews of ideas and topics. One of the "tricks of the trade" when doing your basic research is to figure out terms and keywords you will need to use when searching the database. They can be as simple as a word or phrase or a person's name or as complex as creating a boolean search. |