Choosing the right sources for your research is very important. A variety of resources are available, including books, articles and websites. Different sources can provide different types of information and will be used differently in the preparation of a research product. For instance, a book will provide general or background information on a topic while a peer-reviewed journal article provides more specific information that may serve as evidence to support a thesis.
Books
Scholarly books contain authoritative information and this can include comprehensive accounts of research or scholarship, historical data, overviews, experts' views on themes/topics. Use a book when you require background information and related research on a topic, when you want to add depth to a research topic or put your topic in context with other important issues.
Journals/Journal Articles
The articles found in many scholarly journals go through a "peer-review" process. In other words, the articles are checked by academics and other experts prior to publication. As well as containing scholarly information, and original research, journal articles can include reports and/or reviews of current literature and topic-specific information. Use scholarly journals when you need original research on a topic; articles and essays written by scholars or subject experts; factual documented information to reinforce a position; or references lists that point you to other relevant research.
Websites
Websites provide up-to-the minute news and information about current events, trends, and controversial topics. They may also contain government publications such as reports, statistics, legislation and service information; interviews, newspaper articles; research reports; conference/workshop/symposium papers; maps and other types of resources.
1. Massachusetts School Law of 1642 9. John Dewey
2. Northwest Ordinance 10. Willam A. Wirt ("Gary Plan")
3. Horace Mann 11. Ellwood P. Cubberly
4. Thomas Jefferson on Education 12. "A Nation at Risk"
5. Bishop John Hughes 13. Severita Lara
6. Philadelphia Bible Riots 14. Coleman Report
7. Catharine Beecher 15. Scopes Trial
8. Julian Nava
1. Roberts v. City of Boston 59 Mass. (5 Cush.) 198 (1850)
2. Brown v. Board of Education 347 U.S. 483 (1954)
3. Lemon v. Kurtz 403 U.S. 602 (1971)
4. Wisconsin v. Yoder 406 U.S. 205 (1972)
5. Tinker v Des Moines 393 U.S. 503 (1969)
6. Engel v Vitale 370 U.S. 421 (1962)
7. Zelma v Simmons-Harris 536 U.S. 639 (2002)
8. Pierce v Society of Sisters 268 U.S. 510 (1925)
9. West Virgina State Board of Education v Barnett 319 U.S. 624 (1943)
10. New Jersey v TLO 469 U.S. 325 (1985)
11. West Side Community Schools v Mergens 496 U.S. 226 (1990)
12. Meyer v Nebraska 262 U.S. 390 (1923)
13. Plessy v Ferguson-163 U.S. 537 (1896)