Friday, October 10, 2008

The Oxford Guide - Useful tools

Comparing bibliographies is essential in research. Mann discusses the use of this technique as zeroing in on the “best sources quickly” (13). Obviously, someone else has already made the trip to the library, scouted out the experts, posted those sources in the bibliography and made it all the more easier toward one’s own research. These types of quick and easy methods are useful tools for any student attempting to complete a research project. The Oxford Guide to Library Research provides useful information toward narrowing down the specific scope of entry. Mann provides a full range of suggestions and options either through electronic media or in-person library usage that specifically aims at successful research. I had no idea as to the number of specialized encyclopedias -- what a treasure!

The section on word choice proved to be informative. In fact, after our recent scavenger hunt (library assignment) I found it interesting that it took more time to look information up using the on-line system then to physically search for the book. Attempting to search for the right word to keystroke onto the keypad was confusing just as Mann indicated. Those little “red books” (Library of Congress Subject Headings) are truly useful in cases like this.

1 comment:

Dreds71 said...

I completely agree. Also there is somethign to be said about actually holding a book in your hand rather than looking at dots on a screen.

I learned a lot from the lbrary scavenger hunt: who knew a encyclopedia of monograms and autographs existed? very cool