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SLS 1503 - STEM/ Medical: Guide to Science Information Resources

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Introduction

The creation of new knowledge and making discoveries are the building blocks of what is known in the sciences.  Thousands of students and researchers from around the world participate in research, experiments, and publishing within its many fields.  Countless innovations and new developments are the results of their efforts.  This tutorial will introduce the processes used to distribute this information, introduce common sources of science information, and then describe how scientists find information to inform and support their research.

After completing the Guide to Science Information Resources, students will be able to do the following:

  • Identify how scientific knowledge and discoveries are communicated. 
  • Classify common types of publications used in the scholarly community.
  • Describe the general information tools and resources used in the sciences.
  • Examine issues related to the information and database access.

10 Reasons to Learn This Stuff

10. This tutorial and its contents will familiarize you with the basic terms and concepts used to describe science information sources.

9.  You will be able to speak the jargon or language of your subject area with seasoned pros.

8.  Your new knowledge will spare you from the frustration of being lost in Google or a sand trap of information.  

7.  The information you find will influence your approach toward your research.

6.  The success of your research often depends on how well you know the tools and resources of your field.

5.  Time is $$ in research; wasting time = wasting money.

4.  You just might increase your appreciation for your subject area and how it got to where it is.

3.  Professionals are expected to know what's going on in their field (this includes you).

2.  Your grade can be affected by what you know and can do.

1.  Your professors and advisors will think you have initiative (and may be more likely to help you with your own academic or professional goals).

Kristy Padron, Librarian