Introduction to Subscription Databases
Objectives:
1. describe the purpose and components of a database;
2. differentiate between documents accessible via the “free web” and those found in
subscription databases;
3. appreciate the quantity of databases in existence and the number available to HMHS students
via the HMHS library and the HPL library;
4. identify the factors that influence the quality of information found in databases;
5. access the databases available to HMHS students, and choose the appropriate databases for
their need;
6. understand searching concepts that apply across databases;
7. successfully search several databases to find information useful to their research needs;
8. extract information from selected sources; and
9. cite sources found in databases.
Presentation:
1. Citing examples prevalent in the students’ lives, discuss why database exist and describe
their structure (Do Now and handout).
2. Discuss why sources found in databases are not available on the free web nor found via
common search engines.
3. Discuss the characteristics of information found in subscription databases that influence their
quality?
4. Show the databases selections available to students at selected college/universities.
5. Briefly overview HMHS and HPL database offerings (handout).
6. List and discuss factors that influence the quality of information in subscription databases
(research basis, editorial oversight, institutional stake, monetary value, cost of production)
7. Logon to subscription database page and demonstrate a basic search. Have students
complete a search. (worksheet)
8. Show basic and advance searching screens in two selected databases. Review universal
searching concepts.
9. Demo an advanced search in selected EBSCO databases. Have students select from
EBSCOhost databases and complete a search using the advance mode. (worksheet)
10. Demonstrate a federated database search in JerseyClicks. Have the students complete a
search. (worksheet)
11. Have the students select from among the HPL choices and complete a search. (worksheet)
12. Bring up an article in a database and show how to print, email, save, or cut/paste information
for inclusion into another applications (eg. MSWord).
13. Demonstrate how to cite information found via a database in NoodleBib.
Evaluation:
1. Observe students using databases.
2. Discuss usefulness with teachers.
3. Have students complete Exit Tickets.
4. Examine students’ works cited lists.