Information types and sources
A good research strategy is based on a strong research question. If you’re not sure how to ask a strong research question try reviewing the content in Module 1: Developing a Research Question.
Use your research question to help you determine what types of information sources you’ll need.
We'll use this research question as an example:
How does workplace automation affect job opportunities in the United States?
Let's examine different types of information and learn how they can help answer this question.
Source type: reference entries
Information provided:
Information provided:- Usually short and straight forward.
- Includes dictionaries, encyclopedias, and some biographies.
- Authors are sometimes unnamed experts in the field.
- Provides overview and background.
Example publications:
- Dictionary of Engineering Terms
- The Oxford Encyclopedia of American Business, Labor, and Economic History
- McGraw Hill Encyclopedia of Science & Technology
Example that would help answer your question:
An encyclopedia entry entitled “Office Automation” from the Encyclopedia of Computer Science and Technology provides:
- Overview
- Definitions
- Chronology of events
- Important individuals or companies involved in the history.
How to use a reference entry:
- To help familiarize yourself with the topic of workplace automation.
- To explore possible subtopics for refining your topic and research question (see Module 1).