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ENG 1A (Wong) - Finding Research Voices

This guide supports the "Finding Research Voices" library workshop for English 1A students working on their podcast/vodcast research projects.

Crafting Your Search

  1. Identify key concepts in your research question
  2. Brainstorm alternative terms for each concept
  3. Combine with AND/OR to create your search formula

Search Formula Example

(fast fashion OR disposable fashion)
AND
(impact OR effects)
AND
(imagination OR future)

Possible Benjamin Themes to Incorporate (if using)

  • 🌱 Imagination as resistance
  • 🔄 Technology and social justice
  • ⚖️ Challenging dominant systems
  • 🤝 Collective liberation
  • 🔮 Future-making

Adapting Your Search for Different Platforms

Voice Type Search Platform Search Strategy Adjustments
🎓 Scholarly Library databases • Use controlled vocabulary
• Add methodology terms (e.g., "case study," "survey")
• Filter for peer-reviewed
• Use advanced search options
📰 Journalistic News databases
News websites		 • Add date limitations
• Include publication names in search
• Use quotation marks for exact phrases
• Sort by relevance or date
👥 Lived Experience YouTube/Podcasts
Community sites
Social media		 • Add terms like "interview," "testimony," "my story"
• Search for specific affected groups
• Use hashtags on social platforms
• Verify authenticity of sources
🔬 Expert Google Scholar
Government sites
Professional orgs		 • Add credentials to search (PhD, researcher)
• Search within .gov or .org domains
• Use organization names
• Search conference proceedings