Conducting
Research for Writing in Africana and Ethnic American Literature, History, Culture
One of the most important elements to conducting research is to know what you are looking for and where you may possibly find that data. Whether you are looking for a book, scholarly articles, web sites, microfilm, DVD/VHS, or documentaries, the Internet is a fast and convenient way to set you on the right path to finding what you need to conduct your research.
Many students rely on search engines for information, such as Google. Unfortunately, there are no quality controls for generic search engines; therefore, students need to know how to determine the credibility of each site they access. In addition, students sometimes rely on the Internet alone to conduct research, which limits their possibilities. Nothing can replace the library and archival records, however, the Internet is catching up to
traditional research processes. With academic sites that are accessible to most students through their respective
library systems now numbering in the hundreds, many documents can be found Online. However, new technology does not negate traditional research. Often professors will create their own web sites to assist students with their research. Be sure to check with your professor's site to see if she has one for your particular course. Whether your researching educational statistics or the history and impact of colonial conquest, you can probably find it below; at a minimum, you will certainly be able to begin a credible research project in Africana and Ethnic American Literature, History, and Culture.
Native American Literature, History, and Culture