SCSM 101: Finding Sources:
Starting Your Search

As you design your Themed Exploration, you will select courses in different disciplines and areas of the Core that explore the central topic and question of your TE. You will then need to search for some credible, high-quality sources that you would want to read, watch, or listen to in each class. 

Your sources could include articles from newspapers, magazines, or scholarly journals; books or book chapters; video or audio (documentaries, podcasts); or other relevant sources. You should include academic sources as well as popular culture or public scholarship.

Wait! Why are we using the Springfield College library resources instead of Google?

• The library provides thousands of sources, such as ebooks, videos, and scholarly articles, that aren't available for free online
• Library resources include high-quality academic materials that can be difficult to find in a Google search (and, again, might not be free!)
• You'll be able to find the types of sources your professors want you to use more quickly and easily
• If you're already on the Library Services website, it's easy to ask the library for help!

Library databases are collections of sources in different subject areas. The different database platforms will have different search screens, so you may need to practice to figure out how to search in each database. If you're stuck, ask a librarian! We're happy to help you navigate the library's resources.