FYS: Key Concepts and Keywords

Summary

The video emphasizes the importance of identifying key concepts before searching for information in library catalogs and databases. It illustrates this process using the research topic of doping in professional cycling, highlighting the key terms: doping, professional cycling, and motivations. The script advises against using connecting words in searches and encourages finding synonyms and related terms to broaden search results. Specific examples include alternative terms for doping and references to notable events or individuals in cycling. The video concludes by recommending library assistance for those struggling to identify relevant key terms.

Takeaways

• 😀 Identifying key concepts in your research topic is crucial for effective searching.
• 😀 Key concepts are typically nouns that represent the main ideas of your topic.
• 😀 Avoid including connecting words and phrases when searching in library catalogues or databases.
• 😀 Synonyms and related terms can expand your search and yield more relevant results.
• 😀 Doping and performance-enhancing drugs are synonymous terms that can be used interchangeably.
• 😀 Consider looking for specific events (e.g., Tour de France) or athletes (e.g., Lance Armstrong) in your searches.
• 😀 Understanding athletes' attitudes toward doping is important when researching motivations.
• 😀 Formulating a clear and focused search strategy can improve the quality of information retrieved.
• 😀 Utilizing resources like encyclopedias and thesauruses can help in finding additional relevant terms.
• 😀 If you're having trouble identifying key terms, seek assistance from library staff.

Q & A

Why is it important to identify key concepts before searching for information?

Identifying key concepts is crucial because library catalogues and databases rely on specific words to return relevant results, unlike general search engines where full sentences may yield useful information.

What are the key concepts in the research topic 'What are the motivations for doping in professional cycling?'

The key concepts are 'doping,' 'professional cycling,' and 'motivations.'

Which types of words should be avoided when searching in a library catalogue?

Connecting words and phrases such as 'what are,' 'for,' and 'in' should be avoided, as they do not contribute meaningful content to the search.

What is an example of a synonym for 'doping'?

A synonym for 'doping' is 'performance-enhancing drugs.'

What specific events or figures can be considered when researching professional cycling?

Specific events like the Tour de France and notable cyclists such as Lance Armstrong can be relevant to the research.

How can related words enhance your research?

Considering related words and synonyms allows for a broader search, increasing the likelihood of finding more relevant information.

What should you do if you're struggling to come up with relevant key terms?

If you're having difficulty identifying relevant key terms, it's advisable to ask for help at the library.

Why might authors use different terms to describe doping?

Authors may use different terms because they can vary in terminology, discussing either the general concept of doping or specific substances, which necessitates the consideration of synonyms in research.

What role does a thesaurus or encyclopedia play in identifying key concepts?

A thesaurus or encyclopedia can help generate synonyms and related terms for the key concepts, aiding in a more effective search.

How does understanding key concepts impact the quality of research outcomes?

A clear understanding of key concepts leads to more precise searches, ultimately resulting in more useful and relevant information being found.