1. Databases Why Use Them?

2. Research Shows… College students are deficient in the area of searching for information – They tend to rely on Web search engines as their main information search strategy – They do not realize that most college-level research resources are not available on the free Web. – They do not distinguish between OPAC’s ( online public access catalog ) and online databases. “A Transition Checklist for High School Seniors, by Patricia Owen School Library Monthly/Vol.XXVI, Number 8/April 2010

3. College Faculty Say Freshman Students Do Not… Find different formats of information. Conduct effective searches. Find full text articles. Do not “regroup” when first attempts to find resources do not work. Distinguish between popular and scholarly articles. Do not properly cite sources using multiple citation styles.

4. Advantages Databases Offer Save time – some offer “one stop shopping” Offer advanced search options that allow you to limit searches to full text, scholarly/peer reviewed works, type of material, reading level, etc. Ability to print, email, save, bookmark, and cite the source. Some even read the article to you. Research caliber material from credible sources. Better prepare our students for success in higher learning institutes.

5. So, Let’s Get Started How did we get databases? – SDOHS LMC budget – Arizona State Library funded by the state of Arizona Where are they? – LMC’s website, or through our school’s website – Select ONLINE DATABASES from the main menu Passwords needed? – Yes – Available on card at counter and in labs