Getting started

Toolkit

One Perfect Source?

Helps students think about how to refine a topic when they can't find any information on it. Highlights the idea that it may be impossible to find an all-in-one source that addresses a topic perfectly and the need to find a different approach.

Toolkit

Picking Your Topic IS Research!

Discusses the idea of adjusting a research topic as an integral part of the research process.

Toolkit

Primary vs. Secondary Sources

This video discusses the difference between primary and secondary sources with examples from the Minnesota Historical Society's collections.

Toolkit

Prior Knowledge of Databases Check

A brief survey (roughly three or four multiple choice questions) assesses level of knowledge and skills relevant to a subject or course. Based on survey results, the instructor can determine an appropriate starting point for a lesson and build upon students' prior knowledge.

Toolkit

Research 101: Credibility is contextual

This video discusses the many factors of evaluating the credibility of a source including the author, audience and purpose.