Google Scholar vs Library databases

Your Presenters: Lori Lampert, Charlie Cowling,

Google Scholar searching: Easy to use, familiar Advanced Search is more useful, but lacks the specific limiters of library databases (Peer reviewed, Fields search, etc.) Can search for “empirical” research articles by using key terms (methodology, conclusions, etc.) found in studies/research articles Generally, more hits than databases

Database Searching: Can reliably limit to peer reviewed journal articles, some databases are all peer reviewed (ScienceDirect, Jstor) More refined/sophisticated searching in most library database advanced searches. Confusing to have so many different databases to choose from

Google Scholar Results: Unknown sources are searched but can retrieve full text of theses & dissertations Full text sometimes, will link to articles Drake has access to Multiple versions of some articles Cited references listed and linked when available

Database Results: Known resources that are searched Ability to locate full text if unavailable in the original database or linked to ILLIAD/ILL to place request The variety of databases allow for a wide range of materials not found in Google Scholar, from court cases to foreign newspapers to recent journal articles Some DBs are limited to a specific subject. As subscribers, vendors solicit input from us for improvements

The verdict? Everyone wins if they recognize that no one of these resources is “complete” in and of itself. They each have their points, which are explained in brief in our “Databases A-Z” list.“Databases A-Z” list. Use them all, as needed, and when in doubt, contact one of us for help. contact one of us