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Paul Meek Library
University of TN at Martin
Martin, TN 38238
(731) 881-7060


U.S. Government Depository

 

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Basic Search Strategies for Online Databases

When searching online databases, there are basic strategies you can employ for finding information. Here are some standard strategies you can use to facilitate database searching. Every database is different but the search strategies are the same.

1. State your information clearly and precisely.

"I want evaluations on the effectiveness of year-round schools."

2. Identify related subject areas.

Education, Social Sciences, Public Policy

3. List all related key terms, including narrower terms and synonyms.

Evaluation; Curriculum Evaluation; Educational Assessment; Instructional Effectiveness; Year-Round Schools; Extended School Year; School Schedules; Schools; Elementary Schools; Primary Schools; Secondary Schools; High Schools.

4. Select the appropriate database(s) to search

ERIC; Education Index; Social Sciences Index

5. Construct a search statement with Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT).

Boolean operators are standard connectors that allow you to narrow, expand, or exclude specific search terms in online databases.

  • Year-Round Schools AND Instructional Effectiveness AND Elementary Education
    AND is used between different keywords to narrow/focus the search
  • Curriculum Evaluation OR Instructional Effectiveness
    Or broadens the search to include synonyms/related words.
  • Extended School Year AND (Curriculum Evaluation OR Instructional Effectiveness)
    When the two Boolean operators are used in the same search, the words connected by OR must be placed in parentheses.
  • Elementary Education NOT Extended School Year
    NOT excludes specific search terms. Be extremely careful when using this operator, or you may end up excluding relevant materials.
    Go to more instructions on using Boolean Logic

 

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