Ethnic Studies

A database is essentially just a collection of resources! These could range from journal articles, newspapers, primary sources, you name it. Here you can view the full Ohio State University catalog of Research Databases.

Searching databases is a little different from your typical google search! Here are some helpful tips so you can find what you're looking for:

• ADVANCED SEARCH boxes will be your new best friend - if you have the option, be sure and select your advanced search.
• * THE ASTERISK is an incredible tool which picks up different variations in word endings. It finishes the word for you. Example: Chican* (this could translate to any form of the word Chicana, Chicano, Chicanas, Chicanx, etc).
• MULTIPLE KEYWORDS can be helpful when you pick specific strong search terms. Remember to use Boolean operators like AND between words - for example if you're broadening a search. This almost functions like the + in a google search. It could be useful if you're looking to create a panethnic search. Example: Latin* AND Chican*.
• SYNONYMS are useful, if you have different words that could represent one idea, put OR in between words. This helps broaden searches that may be pan-ethnic as well - if you're trying to encapsulate a larger ethnic group. Think Labor OR Work.
• EXCLUDED KEYWORDS are great if you want to exclude certain results. If you're researching for example the Black Panther Party, but are not eager to learn about the animal try using the word NOT. Example: Black Panther NOT Cat.
• PHRASE SEARCHING a great tool if you have a specific phrase you want to fine - or a word exactly as it appears. Put the search in quotation marks. Example: "I have a dream that"
• NESTING when doing complicated searches is helpful. You can put various parts in parenthesis if you're searching with ORs and ANDs. Example (Activists AND Vietnam) and (United States OR America OR USA).