Research Basics

What is a research database?

• A collection of popular websites

• A searchable collection of resources

• A social media platform

• An online shopping site

The purpose of using databases is to find reliable information. What is the best route to find RHHS' databases?

• MackinVia

• Follett Destiny RHHS

• Google

• The Library

Answer explanation

To find the databases, the most direct route is through Follett Destiny RHHS.

Additionally, here you will find information about researching and using the databases, as well as any passwords or log in information you may need.

What are the potential disadvantages of using regular Google for research?

• Anyone can create content on the internet, and there's little quality control to ensure that information is unbiased, accurate, or reliable.

• Search results are based on popularity rather than reliability. 

• Most scholarly articles and reports are not published as webpages. 

• Overwhelming volume of information and has limited advanced search features and few options to limit search results.

• Often, it's difficult to find dates and authors in order to cite accurately.

Research is not merely asking a question with one easy answer.  We could call that a closed question.  Research questions are open, meaning that they can only be answered through exploration and discussion.  Therefore, you're not just searching for one answer, you are RE-Searching the topic repeatedly to gain an array of knowledge about the topic.

Which of the following is an open question that would require extensive research to provide a thorough answer?

• When was the first Thanksgiving?

• Who was at the first Thanksgiving?

• Why is Thanksgiving so late this year?

• How have Americans' opinions about the history of Thanksgiving changed over time?

There are three main database groups that you can search for information.  One of these contains numerous resources including Gale, EBSCO, Teaching Books, Learn360, Britannica, and more. 

Which one would you choose to find this list of resources?

• TexQuest

• JSTOR

• ABC-CLIO

• Google

We have a subscription to use TexQuest. Therefore, Rockwall ISD requires a password to sign in.

What is the password?

Answer explanation

After going to Follett Destiny RHHS, click on Research Resources, then click on RHHS Databases to find more information about the databases, including log in information.

What feature is an extremely helpful perk to using research databases?

• Citation generators

• Spell check

• Social media sharing

• Video tutorials

What is a Works Cited page?

• A Works Cited page is a list of personal opinions about a topic.
• A Works Cited page is a list of sources you used

• A Works Cited page is a summary of the main points in a piece of work.
• A Works Cited page is a collection of images used in a project.

What is the most commonly used citation style for English?

• MLA

• APA

• Chicago

What are some of the filters you can use to refine your search results?

• Content type

• Date

• Language

• Subject