Database Search Techniques and Alabama Virtual Library
Explore the Alabama Virtual Library (AVL) and learn about effective database searching techniques to enhance your research experience. Discover the curated resources, providers, and specialized training available to users. Access AVL without a card through geo-location, and find targeted information for academic needs across various educational levels.
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Presentation Transcript
An Introduction to the databases and to searching techniques
The AVL is a collection of electronic databases provided to the citizens of Alabama by the state s government. A database is a collection of information previously published in print or electronic documents created specifically for the use of researchers. banner.jpg
The articles, web sites, and e-books within the databases are carefully selected to meet the research needs of academic users. Most of the databases provide article summaries, citation support, individual files to gather and organize chosen materials, and e-mailing capabilities. Advanced searching help allows users to find relevant information within one database; multiple searches are unnecessary.
The web address for the Alabama Virtual Library is www.avl.lib.al.us. Geo-location makes it possible for you to access the AVL without an AVL card. The system verifies your location using your IP address. If you live on the state line or if you are traveling, you will still need a card.
Providers featured on AVL include Gale EBSCO Britannica Oxford U.S. National Library of Medicine MasterFile Coin Serials Solution
If you select Student Resources, you will see that resources have been divided into four categories: Elementary School, Middle School, High School, and College and University. Once you choose High School, click on the red Go to High School Resources link. The databases appropriate to your level will be displayed. College and University are accessed the same way.
Searching these databases is not like searching Google or Bing. Once you learn how to search, though, you will get much better results. AVL provides search training under the TRAINING tab. Each database provider offers its own training material. We will look at a few examples later. Searches that use as few words as possible will usually yield better results.
Natural Language Keywords Advanced Searching: Using multiple words and phrases Boolean operators and punctuation are two ways to focus your search
http://facstaff.gpc.edu/~shale/humanities/composition/writers_tools/boolean.htmlhttp://facstaff.gpc.edu/~shale/humanities/composition/writers_tools/boolean.html https://valems.wikispaces.com/-Research+%28for+all+subjects%29
Where to Search: A Selected List Feature Boolean operators Full Boolean logic with parentheses, e.g., behavior and (cats or felines) Feature Search Engine Google [OR only under Advanced] Search Engine Usually available on the advanced search page Most search engines offer this option Most advanced search pages offer this option Implied Boolean Boolean logic using search form terminology http://www.chiro.org/LINKS/Boolean_Logic.html
Quotation marks Minus signs Parentheses
Gale provides a wide range of sources as well as a targeted literary collection, Gale Literary Resources. EBSCO provides 2 databases, which cover multiple topics: Student Research Center EBSCOhost Search Training
