Tuesday, January 21, 2014

New research methods database!

University of Waterloo Library Services now subscribes to SAGE Research Methods Online, which can be accessed from our  faculty or graduate student web pages on the Witer Learning Resource Centre (WLRC) home page.

This is an extensive collection (700+ titles) of encyclopedias, textbooks, journal articles, and videos on research methodologies, concepts, and philosophies. Designed to be useful in all disciplines, including the health sciences, it is an intuitive tool that can support students and faculty who are thinking about, or currently engaged in, a research project. If you need a research term explained, if you need an overview of theoretical approaches that could be used to guide your research, or if you want to know how to apply a specific technique, this is the resource for you!

Simply search for your topic or term to get started. Use the Refine by Content option to the right of your results to help you find the answer most useful to you. University of Waterloo students, faculty, and staff have access to the entire collection so you will be able to view any content you are interested in! SAGE Research Methods Online is also available off-campus – just remember to Connect from Home first!

Example of a SAGE research methods search


If you are not sure what you’re looking for, or your results are less than useful, try using the Methods Map. Similar to a mind map, this is a visual representation of the relationships between research techniques, methods, and theories. It allows you to easily narrow in on specific methods or techniques, or expand to overarching frameworks.

Example of a SAGE research Methods Map application


Exporting to bibliographic management software, such as RefWorks, is supported and there are many more useful features. Take a minute to explore and let us know what you think!


If you have any questions come to the WLRC or email us.

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