Research

Research is defined as “the systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions”. When I think of research, I think of gathering information from multiple sources in order to contribute to an argument or claim I am trying to make about a specific topic. Research is for anyone who needs more information and/or insight on a subject or topic. Research answers questions as well as clarifies any misconceptions about a topic. People research because we are not all experts in every topic out there, which is why research is necessary when we do need to know more. Researchers use different methods because different things work for different people. Certain methods of research are also geared towards certain topics, so there is not always one right way to find information. The research method I have used is mostly online. I have used the databases as well as other websites to gather information for my papers and other projects. The part about research that confuses me is which types of research are credible vs. which are not credible. I feel that it is sometimes hard to the most appropriate sources because you do not always know if what the author of the website or article is saying is justified and accurate. I always try to look up the authors as well as check the platform of the website or article to see if I am familiar with it or can define its credibility. Research can mean nothing if it is not gathered from a credible and reliable source, which can be hard to differentiate when searching online. I hope to become better at researching throughout my time at Fairfield and learn how to most effectively find sources to contribute to my work.