The pros and cons of different literature sources
There are loads of primary and secondary sources which can be used in different types of research. Admittedly, scholarly journals, theses, monographs and certain newspapers are regarded as reliable sources as it is easy to trace the author’s ‘academic background’ or professionalism, so-to-speak. When it comes to electronic sources, the degree of credibility is rather low as it is often difficult to trace the author of the paper. Admittedly, it is impossible to base your research on data which cannot be checked. However, electronic sources can also be reliable as long as the source is taken from an online library or database. Luckily, numerous online databases provide a variety of reliable sources.
When doing research, the researcher should remember that primary sources are essential as they contain specific data with no (or minimal) bias. Secondary sources, on the contrary, include other researchers’ opinions, which can also be valuable as any academic research is a part of the larger discourse. Thus, the researcher uses data from primary sources to analyze, and secondary sources are used to support ideas and join the on-going academic discourse.
For instance, when working on class tardiness, it is possible to use a variety of sources. One of possible primary sources to use is a report made by Robers, Zhang, Truman and Snyder (2012) as this report contains specific data on number of students who are late. Another primary source is an article by Spoone (2010) who provides particular reasons for students’ being late. As for the secondary sources, one of such sources is a newspaper article by Wesler (2010) who focuses on one of the schools where a specific program to diminish class tardiness is launched. This source is full of opinions and evaluations, so it can’t be regarded as primary. One more secondary source to be used is the article by Formica (2008) who expresses his opinion on the matter. This opinion is valuable for the research which also highlights opinions on the topic.
Online resources: WebNotes, Zotero, RefWorks
Notably, technology is helping students immensely as now it is easy to collect, analyze, cite, store and even share a variety of sources with the help of software. WebNotes and Zotero are online resources that can help do any research. Some of the most helpful services offered is that these tools help implement research. These tools can be regarded as a huge library in one’s computer. The tools enable the researcher to access a variety of libraries and databases. More so, it is easy to make notes and store the necessary information. However, there is a pitfall as the use of these resources may lead to abundance of information. It is so tempting to make a note in numerous articles. However, many of these sources turn out to be redundant.
One more helpful online resource is RefWorks. One of its most helpful features is the availability of tutorials. Sometimes I can find it difficult to use some software, but I had no problems with RefWorks. Another feature is that it is online based. Thus, I can access my database anywhere and 24/7. Finally, the resource is user-friendly and it helps implement research effectively. I can access a variety of online databases and I can easily manage my sources. These features help me save a lot of time and focus on the research itself, rather than on managing my sources and struggling to find the quote I need.
Reference List
Formica, M.J. (2008). Enlightened living: Mindfulness practice in everyday life. Psychology Today. Web.
Robers, S., Zhang, J., Truman, J., & Snyder, T.D.. (2012). Indicators of school crime and safety: 2011.National Center for Education Statistics. Web.
Spoone, S. (2010). Why student show up late. The Torch, 4(20), 1. Web.
Wesler, A. (2010). Tough-love tardy policy gets students to class on time. Ksby.com. Web.