Databases, Search Engine, Research Resources, Refining Search Terms - Essay Example

A database is “a collection of data and items organized for convenient access” (What are databases? Common terms and definitions). Through the Internet, it is possible to get into databases and access the information available in the databases. Invariably the databases collect a membership fee to provide access. In academic circles with the frequent need for large quantities of information, the use of databases has become popular and can be seen in the linkage that they maintain with databases in addition to the libraries that they still maintain. In short, we can call the databases virtual libraries. The databases that I usually use are Medscape, Medline, PubMed, BioMed, and eMedicine.

Search Engine:

On the Internet, it is the search engine that uses a set of software programs to identify the request and search the databases and provide the outcome of the search (search engines). Put in simple terms traditionally an individual went to a library and searched for information and brought the information back. The search engine does exactly this by searching for information based on the search terms given and makes available the information that it has found on the databases.

Research Resources:

The first step in my search for research resources on the internet was to use the most common search engines Google and Yahoo. This gave me access to some databases but found that I could do a better job in searching for resources on the net by selecting more academic-oriented search engines and so I shifted to Academic Reference and Research Index. (Searching the Internet).

Refining Search Terms:

The search terms used are crucial in getting the required information and the speed at which the information is located. Initially, I found that my search terms were inadequate and provided me with the information I did not require or I was flooded with information, which I had to shift to. This made refining the search terms or queries a requirement. Refining a search term means altering or adding to the set of search terms employed. (Refining a Query). I exploited the search terms that gave me the information and amended the search terms that proved to be not satisfactory. The changes that I have adopted in my methods of researching the Net for information have made me more successful in securing the information that I want and that too at a much faster pace.

The information available is wider than the information available in any library and this information is not restricted by any period providing versatility. For instance journals up to a certain period are kept in libraries and accessing journals beyond this period is either painstaking or near impossible. At virtually a few clicks of the mouse,e the Internet provides a wide array of information accounting for the speed advantage. No need to go to the library and look for books or journals. Flexibility is because the Internet never closes like libraries and can be accessed at any time. The Net can be accessed from wherever there is a personal computer and an Internet connection. This makes it possible to search for information from home conveniently. Alternatively, a laptop with a wireless Internet connection allows access to the Internet from anywhere, even when traveling. Traditional methods do not offer this convenience (Savolainen, 2004).

Conclusion:
Once the simple methods of searching the Internet for information for research are mastered the Internet offers a better means for information for research and through this facility has revolutionized the way information is got for research purposes in modern times. Read More