Examples and Case Studies
Once you have an idea of your overall topic, it may be helpful to find examples of your topic to write about and analyze. This kind of information can often be found in books (ex: a book covering the history or background of a conflict) or in newspaper articles (ex: an event that is part of a particular conflict and reported on). A general search in either the catalog or a newspaper database will help you compile relevant examples.
Be sure you are evaluating the validity and use of your resources, especially if they are originate from a non-scholarly source. There is some information to help you evaluate sources on this page, next to the handy list of available newspaper databases. The tutorial in the bottom box of this page has tips on getting started with your topic, where to find information, and how to ensure you are addressing something with a suitable scope; not too vague or specific, so that it is more likely you can find the information you need.
Newspapers Databases
- ProQuest Newspapers This link opens in a new window
Search the full text of these newspapers: The Baltimore Sun, Christian Science Monitor, New York Times, Washington Post, and Wall Street Journal.
- America's Historical Newspapers This link opens in a new window
Search and browse American newspapers published across three centuries.
SU Libraries Virtual Newsrack Guide
The Virtual Newsrack is a compilation of access points to all of the newspapers to which SU Libraries currently subscribes, print and online.
Tutorial: Using Cases & Objects of Study in Your Research
Online Tutorial by Tina Plottel (2020)
PRO TIP: Evaluating Sources
There is an overwhelming amount of information to be found online and it is important as ever to be mindful of the information you come across before deciding to use it in your own work. Review the tips below for insight on deciding what traits you can find in scholarly VS non-scholarly sources and some general criteria to help you determine if a source is worth using or if it falls short.
Scholarly VS Popular Articles
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Evaluating Resources: CRAAP Test
Go beyond evaluating the webiste URL ending by using this checklist of criteria.
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