Using Web Resources

Databases vs. Web

It is important to understand that the information found in databases such as LexisNexis Academic or Factiva is not the same as the information found on the Web. A great deal of time, effort, and money is spent to purchase, collect, and organize the scholarly data found in these and other databases provided by the University Libraries. In contrast, because of its free and open nature, there is little to no organization involved in Web information resources. Therefore, many instructors will require that the Web not be used to collect information for research assignments. It is recommended that when doing research, UB databases be used before seeking information from the Web. The Web often provides useful and reliable information. However, the information found on the Web must be used with discretion.

Internet vs. World Wide Web

The Internet is a world-wide communications network of thousands of independent computers and information systems which exchange data. Often referred to as a "network of networks," the Internet contains several different parts. One of those parts is the World Wide Web . One must have access to the Internet in order to use or browse the Web. It is through pages published on the Web that one is provided access to information quickly and easily. Web pages can be accessed through any computer with an Internet connection and a Web browser such as Netscape or Internet Explorer.

Search Engines

Search engines are the most common tools people use to search the Web. They are indexed by computerized "spider" programs that crawl through the Web searching for new Web pages to add to their listings. Most general search engines have millions of indexed pages which are not organized into any discernible order. This often leads to the returning of numerous records which may have nothing to do with your original search. Therefore, search engines are best used for specific references, general facts and information, or information about specific people or organizations. Examples of general search engines include:

Subject Directories

If you already know the subject matter that you need to research, it might be better to start searching with a subject directory. Subject directories are indexed by the same "spider" programs as general search engines, however they are organized by human beings into subject specific hierarchies . Subject directories emphasize "quality over quantity", therefore there are smaller numbers of Web pages listed in subject directories than search engines. Examples of subject directories include:

Basic Search Engine Tips

Read over the HELP screen of each search engine you use.

One of the main advantages of using search engines is their ease of use. However, each search engine has different options for searching. Therefore, always read the HELP screen and guides offered by each search engine.
Use quotations where applicable.

Most search engines support the use of quotations. When looking for a specific name, title, organization, or phrase encase them in quotations for more accurate results. For example:
- "Fall of the House of Usher" - title
- "quoth the raven nevermore" - quote
- "Edgar Allen Poe" - name
- "The Academy of American Poets" - organization
Use Boolean searching.

Use Boolean searching if there is more than one keyword, term, or concept needed. Boolean terms are conjunctions such as AND, OR, NOT which are used to used to connect concepts and construct search statements.

The search engine Google.com uses the symbol – in place of NOT.

For example:

• Presidents and speeches

• Presidential speeches and Lincoln – Roosevelt

Use combinations of Boolean operators and quotations

• Speech and “Abraham Lincoln” and “for score and seven years”

• Ghost and “Hotel del Coronado”

Some search engines will only look for the literal spellings of words, while other may or may not be case sensitive. Always check the HELP screens to find out. Google.com has a spell checker that will ask you if you are certain about your spelling.
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