This week will serve as an introduction to locating published information and scientific "evidence" related to natural resource decisions using library resources. My objective is that you will have control over your search process and succeed in identifying and locating on the information you need. In keeping with the expectations of a 3 credit course, the readings and exercises may require up to 4-6 hours to complete if the material is entirely new to you.
There are two parts to this assignment.
First you have three guided exercises with links to short supplementary readings (these are linked from the column to the right).
If you have prior experience with database searching from other coursework, the guided exercises may seem tedious -- it is okay to skip parts you know but a good idea to read over the text;
I suggest you *not* expect to complete all of the guided exercises in one sitting.
If you find you have problems accessing the tools contact me as soon as possible and no later than friday, February 1, 2008.
Second you must complete is a graded exercise (linked from the box in the lower right of this page). It is worth 100 points. If you have done the guided exercises, this one will require 45 - 90 minutes (at the most). This is due on or before midnight, February 11, 2008.
In order to take advantage of a libraries resources and successfully locate information on a topic, you first need to first know:
How to identify "published" items in a library online catalogs and consortial catalogs. In the case of Oregon State University, this means locating items in the OSU Libraries Catalog, and the cooperative catalog of the Orbis-Cascade Library Alliance consortium, known as Summit.
How to select (based on your own criteria) and search in one or more appropriate indexing databases in order to find current research articles, trade information, and/or news related to a topic of interest.
How to look at your topic of interest and plan a search strategy in these "indexing databases."
The suggestions below are not specific to this class but you may find them interesting.
This exercise will allow you to demonstrate your understanding of the literature review process and techniques. It is intended to make use of all of the concepts discussed in the guided exercises. This year, the due date is extended by two weeks. This will allow time for you to investigate your analysis paper topic while completing this exercise. In that way it will serve a dual purpose.
Plan on sending your responses to me via e-mail no later than midnight, Monday, February 11, 2008;
I will grade and comment on these and copy Dr. Ehrhart on my email reply to you. Save a copy of the completed assignment you send.