Full Answer Section

• Search Strategies: Utilize effective search terms and Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to refine your results. Most databases offer search tips and tutorials.
• Filters: Narrow down results by publication date, peer-review status, methodology (quantitative, qualitative), and other relevant criteria.
• Citation Trails: Use the reference lists of relevant articles to discover related research and expand your search.
• Search Engines (Caution): Use academic search engines like Google Scholar alongside library databases. Be cautious of non-peer-reviewed sources and evaluate them critically.

Resources for a Meaningful Search:

• Librarian Assistance: Walden University librarians are invaluable resources. Schedule consultations or ask for research assistance through the library website.
• Subject Guides: The library offers subject guides tailored to specific academic programs. These guides often recommend relevant databases and search strategies.
• Citation Management Tools: Use tools like Mendeley or Zotero to organize your references and generate citations in various styles (APA, MLA, etc.).
• Research Skills Workshops: Attend workshops offered by the library or online tutorials to enhance your research skills.

Walden University Library Support Mechanisms:

• Library Website: The Walden University Library website is a one-stop shop for accessing databases, research guides, tutorials, and librarian contact information.
• Ask a Librarian: Librarians are available to answer your research questions via chat, email, or phone.
• Walden Writing Center: The Writing Center offers support with research strategies, citation styles, and academic writing throughout your program.

Additional Tips:

• Start Early: Allow ample time for your literature search. Research can be time-consuming, and you may need to revise your search terms as you learn more about your topic.
• Critical Evaluation: Don’t just collect sources; critically evaluate them for credibility, relevance, and potential biases.
• Take Notes: Keep track of key ideas, quotes, and citations as you explore the literature.

By utilizing these strategies and leveraging the resources offered by Walden University Library, you can conduct successful literature searches and build a strong foundation for your academic work.