The 1st Stage of this project is to conduct Research. This guide is designed to walk you through the process of selecting a topic, using Butte College Library resources to find credible fact-based sources of information, and critically evaluating the sources you encounter.
It can be a good idea to start with some general sources in order to gain background information and to settle on a topic.
A great way to do this is by looking in a reference source. Reference sources such as encyclopedias (including Wikipedia), dictionaries, atlases, and general books can help you understand your topic by giving you definitions, stating key persons in that field, and providing lists of additional resources. Once you have a better understanding of your topic, it will be easier to put together search terms to find relevant materials. (Many instructors frown upon using Wikipedia to cite as a source because it can be edited by anyone and the content can continually change. However, it is a great place to start your research to become familiar with your topic, find additional resources, and learn the language of that topic.)
Below are some books that might provide some good background info on a variety of topics:
College: what it was, is, and should be by 
Sports and Athletes: opposing viewpoints by 
The Internet: opposing viewpoints by Having trouble choosing a topic? Explore a list of topics or discover some of the issues and controversies concerning possible topics by searching these library databases:
This link opens in a new windowFull-text articles of the most important, current, and controversial issues of the day. Includes an overview, historical background, chronology, pro/con feature, plus resources for additional research.
This link opens in a new windowExplores and analyzes hundreds of hot topics in politics, business, government, crime, law, energy, education, health, family, science, foreign policy, race, rights, society, and culture. Updated weekly, with a wire-service newsfeed providing the latest headline stories.
This link opens in a new window This link opens in a new windowYou can access library resources from anywhere as long as you have an internet connection. Simply login when prompted with your Butte College email and password. If you are having issues logging in, please contact the reference desk at 530-879-4024 or referenceli@butte.edu.
