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CADR 200 (Becker): Background

This is a course guide for Professor Becker's section of CADR 200, specifically for research assistance with the Conflict Research Paper Assignment.

Background Information

Books are going to be helpful for this project because many scholars write books as overviews of a larger topic. As you start your research, ask yourself: what information do you already know about your topic? What information would be useful to know? Where is that information most likely to be found?

Search the catalog using the SURF box below for books that can provide a detailed history of your topic to gain background knowledge. Encyclopedias and dictionaries are also good sources to consult when you are at the beginning of your research and you are compiling the basics about your topic.

Tutorial: SU Libraries' Self Check-Out App

Watch this video to learn about the GAC's mobile self check-out app. 

Use SURF to Find Books and Ebooks

Developing Keywords

Use keywords to find topic arguments in research tools.

Starting research question/topic: "How did the second World War impact gender roles and the family dynamic?"

Keywords:      Second World War      Gender Roles     Family Dynamic
                                    V                             V                            V
                          World War II                Gender                  Family

This is a great way to develop an initial search strategy where you pull out keywords from your starting thesis or question and can continue to refine them to best fit your needs and the databases you are using. 


You are encouraged to fill out the keyword sheet to explore wording to describe your own topic as you begin your research.