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Guide to the Research Process: Step 2: Locate Information

This guide provides an introduction to the skills needed to conduct research, with particular reference to the field of education.

Steps to Locating Information

Research typically involves using a variety of sources including:

  • reference works;
  • books;
  • videos;
  • articles from newspapers, magazines, and journals;
  • online databases;
  • government/official publications;
  • dissertations and theses;
  • conference papers and proceedings;
  • statistical sources; and
  • websites.

 

Types of Information Sources

Before starting your research, it's important to understand the types of information sources available. This video from the Oviatt Library, California State University Northridge (CSUN) provides a broad overview of the information you can find in primary, secondary, and tertiary sources.

 

This Research Guide was developed by Linda Quamina-Aiyejina