LibGuides: TPCK Sample: Conduct Background Research

Introduction

Learning more about the topic you are researching before you begin helps you to see different perspectives, identify strong keywords, and provide you with some resources (articles, books, etc.) about your topic that can help you refine your research question. We recommend using the two databases below - Opposing Viewpoints in Context and CQ Researcher - to learn more about your topic.

Start by using simple keywords. For example, if you are researching protests in sports, you might enter search for: football protest
As you do background research write down any new questions you have that will help you address your research topic.

Locating Background Information

CQ Researcher
Search CQ Researcher to locate pro/con information on current issues, as well as reports, summaries and some articles. CQ Researcher not only helps you see both sides of a debate, but also provides some citations for articles and books to begin your research.
Opposing Viewpoints in Context
Search Opposing Viewpoints in Context to see pro/con viewpoints on current topics, and locate reference materials (tertiary sources). Opposing Viewpoints will also provide you with recommendations on primary sources, scholarly articles, newspapers and magazines on the topics to help launch your research and understand the topic.