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Research Database, or Google?

•  Research databases are more focused than what you can find with an Internet search engine, and include the full text of many magazines, journals, and newspapers that are otherwise only available through paid subscriptions.
• Google searches result in popular sources that are not necessarily peer-reviewed or scholarly (ie., not always  suitable as a source for research). 

What does "peer reviewed" mean?

A peer-reviewed journal is one that uses a system of reviewers who are the professional equals of the principal author of an article or book. Many academic journals utilize the peer review process. Several databases carry peer-reviewed journals and allow you to limit your search to peer-reviewed titles.

"Scholarly":

Scholarly sources are written by subject experts for an audience of experts. They are not always peer-reviewed, but they are considered more credible than sources written by non-experts.

 Databases provide:

• citations
• easy ways to save, print, or email items and links
• test practice, learning opportunities, and study techniques
• hints on items for further study or related topics

Get Research Assistance 

Need help knowing where to start your library research?

• ask a Librarian for help at the Holt Library desk or
• contact us to set up a one-on-one appointment. 

Email: library@southwesterncc.edu
Phone: 828.339.4288