To search and evaluate information
Being able to search and evaluate information is an important part of both academic studies and professional life. The library is responsible for the supply of scientific information at the University of Gävle.
Search information
You can search for information in databases, search engines, catalogues and websites. Depending on the topic and type of publication you are looking for, you need to adapt where and how you search for your material. When searching our databases, it can make a big difference if you know the general search principles that work in most databases, such as how to combine keywords and how to use synonyms and truncation.
The Library have created subject guides in several subjects. In those you can get help to find databases and how to do searches in the specific subjects that you are interested in.
To evaluate information
When searching for information in your studies at the University, it is important that you reflect on the type of material you find. Not all sources contain reliable information and therefore you need to make a judgement on whether the material you have found is suitable to use or not.
At the library you can read more about what to consider when evaluating information.
The Search Guide
The Library made a search guide, in which we will guide you through the four steps of information retrieval by teaching you how to plan your search, how to conduct it, how to find material and, finally, how to evaluate your search results.
Go to the Library´s search guide
External link.
Teaching information retrieval
The aim of the library's teaching of information retrieval is to develop the information competences of students and researchers. Information retrieval can be described as a multi-step process: formulation of the search question, selection of search terms, selection of sources, implementation, evaluating sources and, in some cases, presentation of the search. Your teacher can organise such training for your course.
Questions about information retrieval?
Do you have questions about databases, scientific texts and sources? When the Information desk is staffed, you can ask all kinds of questions about information searching. If you are unable to come to the Library, please call us at 026-64 85 48 External link. or send an e-mail to biblioteket@hig.se.
Book a librarian
Are you working on a thesis, report or a dissertation and need tips about finding sources and search techniques?
Students, teachers, researchers and other members of staff can book a session for guidance on information searching. A librarian will help you to search in different databases. We can also help with your information searching at the information desk in the Library. If you are a distance student, you can be guided via the telphone or online.
This page was last updated 2024-04-21