Film Studies: Web Resources

Why should I use Web sites?

• Web sites are a great source of information about organizations and institutions and government generated statistics and reports.

• They are also useful for comparing popular perceptions to scientific research findings. The free Web contains a vast collection of resources - some worthwhile

How do I find good Web sites?

Start by reviewing the Web Searching Guide for expert advice on the best search engines--both general and specialized.

Of particular note are the "academic web resources" which includes a link to Google Scholar and other search engines that focus on, credible, scholarly information available on the Web.

note: no single search engine comes close to indexing all of the Web. Be sure to search two or three different search engines if you want to be thorough.

For every major, most minors, and other special topics, librarians have put together a subject guide with links to quality sites (near the bottom of the guide).

8 great Internet search tips:

1. Use phrase searching for multiple word phrases by enclosing the phrase in quotation marks--Example "War and Peace.”
2. Use advanced searching mode whenever possible for more precise searching.
3. Use the most specific or esoteric words you can think of to describe your search
4. Use the command "Control-F" or "Edit > Find in Page" to search for a word within a long Web document.
5. Understand the difference between domains-- .com, .org., .gov, .edu-- and limit your search to the best domain.
6. Use "+" to require a word in your search or "–" to eliminate a word from your search.
7. Change the word order or try new words if your search doesn’t bring you the desired results.
8. Ask a Librarian for help or use the Subject Guides