SOCI 2850: Methods of Social Research I (Prof. Jefferson): Finding Scholarly Articles

Selecting search terms can be tricky for beginning researchers in social sciences. Keep the following in mind:

• If your search is generating too few results, check to see if the database has a thesaurus. If it does, search the thesaurus to see if there are suggested terms for your topic.

• Look for subject terms and author-supplied keywords as you look through abstracts. Try updating your search to the terms & keywords the database provides.

• Become familiar with Boolean search techniques:
  • How Library Stuff Works: Boolean Operators video from McMaster Libraries
  • How Library Stuff Works: Boolean Modifiers video from McMaster Libraries

  You can always request a one-on-one meeting with a librarian if you need help finding articles on your topic.

Scholarly or peer-reviewed articles in social sciences feature original research by experts to expand the field of study. Peer-reviewed articles:

• Undergo a process of peer review where other experts who work in the same field evaluate the methodology and evidence presented in the article.

• Are aimed at scholars, researchers, students, and others looking for a deeper understanding of issues.

• Are published in journals by universities, professional associations, or academic publishers.

• Usually consist of 6 or more pages.

• Always include citations and bibliographies.

► Further clues lie in the article type:

• Empirical articles feature research based on direct or indirect observed and measured phenomena. 
  • These articles will report using quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods to analyze and interpret data.
  • Empirical articles will have specific sections that should generally include an abstract, introduction, literature review, methodology and/or results section, discussion section, conclusion, and bibliographic references.

• Theoretical articles will analyze and make connections between empirical studies to advance a theoretical position and include bibliographic references.

• Review articles (i.e. articles from Annual Review of Sociology) cover major advancements in a field (such as theoretical and/or methodological developments) as well as current research in subfields. These articles summarize available literature and include bibliographic references.

  If you are still unsure if an article is peer-reviewed, find the journal's website via Google to verify. Search the website under general publication descriptions, mission statements, submission guidelines, etc. for references to “peer review,” “review process,” or being “refereed.”

Scopus tips:

Once inside the database, look for the circled question mark on the top right side of the screen. Click the question mark to find video and text tutorials that explain how to search Scopus effectively.