Scoones, P. (n.d.). Ocean life [Image]. Science Photo Library.
First, select six specific topics at specific locations from this list of categories:
Topic example: Diamond mining off the coast of Namibia
Diamond mining falls under the seabed mining category and Namibia is the specific location.
First, let's search a couple of the research databases listed on the Background Information page. These will give you overview/encyclopedia-type information on your chosen topic, but not necessarily on the specific location/country. For example, click on Britannica Online from that page, and type your topic, for example: diamond mining into the search box. You can then do the same search in Credo Reference.
Next, let's add in the specific location aspect of your topic and search for research articles, eBooks, etc. OneSearch searches most of the library's 90+ databases all at the same time. When you have a topic that contains more than one main idea, such as, diamond mining off the coast of Namibia, it is helpful to use the Advanced Search screen in OneSearch. You will see 3 search boxes. Enter each main idea into it's own box. For example:
In the first box, type the specific topic you are researching. If it's a phrase of more than one word, like "diamond mining," put the phrase in quotation marks. This will search for "diamond mining" instead of searching diamond and mining as separate words.
In the second box, type the location, for example: Namibia
Click the Search button. You can narrow down your results with the Refine Results column on the left side of the page. Try limiting by date or resource type.
If you need personalized research assistance, please contact your librarians. We are here to help!
Write a one-page description for each of the six selected topics. Each page will include these three items:
The topic and location: (eg.) Diamond mining off the coast of Namibia
The problem: (eg.) Diamond mining stirs up sediments on the floor of the ocean damaging the ecosystem
Summary (found through your research): Must tie the problem to the specific location (eg.) Answer the question, why are their diamonds in this location. Then, a summary of the effects.