Research Techniques: Key Research Sources
Information Sources
- SCOPUS This link opens in a new window
- SAGE Research MethodsSAGE Research Methods supports research at all levels by providing material to guide users through every step of the research process.
- Subject DatabasesIn order to use more accurate filters than are available on aggregator systems (e.g. Locate, Google Scholar), we recommend performing the majority of searches for research projects using subject-focused databases. The lists provided on these pages represent a good (but not exclusive) list of the resources available to you as a CU campus student.
Key resources
Social Research Methods: Chapter 14 Using Existing Data by Call Number: 300.72BRYISBN: 9780198796053Publication Date: 2021Chapter 14: 'Using Existing Data' covers a range of approaches and methods for desk based (secondary) research.
How to Write Your Undergraduate Dissertation: Chapter 22 Secondary Sources by Call Number: 808.02GREISBN: 9781352005226Publication Date: 2019Chapter 22 focuses on use of secondary sources.
The Study Skills Handbook by ISBN: 9781137610874Publication Date: 2019Chapter 16 contains some useful information around planning your dissertation
- Sage Research Methods: Secondary Analysis of Qualitative DataTo access, login by selecting 'Sign in' then select 'Access via your Institution', enter 'Coventry University' then select 'OpenAthens/Shibboleth'.
- Sage Research Methods: Secondary Analysis of Secondary Analysis of Quantitative DataTo access, login by selecting 'Sign in' then select 'Access via your Institution', enter 'Coventry University' then select 'OpenAthens/Shibboleth'.
- SAGE Research MethodsSAGE Research Methods supports research at all levels by providing material to guide users through every step of the research process.
- Social Research Methods 6E by Call Number: 300.72BRYISBN: 9780198796053Publication Date: 2019
Research Approaches handout
- Research Approaches and Methods
This guide provides a basic overview of research approaches and methods that are used in research projects. This guide is designed as an introduction and so should only be used to gain an initial understanding of key research approaches and methods.
When writing a research project, do not cite or reference this guide. To support your research decisions, you must use literature such as the books signposted in this guide and other
resources available via the Library.
Support with Research
- LibKey NomadLibKey Nomad is a browser plug-in which allows quick and easy access to journal articles and other research outputs you might find online.
If you are doing research outside of Library databases and find a paywalled article, a green Nomad box will appear in the corner of your screen to help you access a full version of the article (if we have access). - Reference Management softwareWhen conducting longer, larger-scale research projects, it can be beneficial to use reference management software to record and organise sources found, as well as generating a reference list in your required style.
There are many reference management options available, including online platforms, software/apps, and services which mix both approaches. The Library recommends Zotero for most undergraduate students, but other systems are also available.
Speak to Library staff if you would like more support with reference management software.