Segment 2: Search & Retrieve

In this phase of the process, you conduct literature searches in databases of selected knowledge and practice domains and retrieve abstracts.

Once the literature search is underway, periodically review the abstracts retrieved and adjust your search strategy. Think of the abstracts as informants in a snowball sampling strategy; they suggest to you other leads to pursue.

In the example below I searched the ERIC database with the phrase "sense of place." From the abstract of one of the items found in this search, I identified additional concepts related to sense of place.

Many of the bibliographic databases now have features that help, such as links to related terms. If the databases you're using offer a 'browse' function so you can peruse the terms indexed in that database, be sure to look for variations of your search terms. The moral of this story is become acquainted with the particulars of the databases you're using. For a guide on common elements of electronic databases, see Learning the Basics of Each Database.

• In addition to searching the bibliographic databases, you may, depending on your subject area, also want to search the Internet. Naturally, all the caveats about evaluating the dependability of material found on the Net apply. For tutorials on Net searching AND evaluation of information found there, take a look at Internet Research Guides.