For the database that you are assigned you will have some class time to investigate the product, learn how to use it and ask questions. You and your team will do a 10-minute demonstration of the database.

Your goal is to be able to show your classmates what the assigned database covers (both subjects and dates), who produces it and how reputable they are, basic and advanced searches, any other features which would help do a search (truncation, wild card, Boolean operators, etc.), printing/emailing/downloading options, etc. so that they could use the database themselves after your presentation.

It would be a good idea to use some examples of searches you tried while learning your database. Work should be evenly divided between team members. Both team members should be prepared to do some part of the presentation to the class. Grades will be given for the team presentation. Be sure to fill out this worksheet and turn it in once you have completed your presentation to the class.

 Part 1: Database Description

Name the database_________________________________________

What is the database subject(s)? 

Who is the authority that developed the database? How do you know it’s a reliable source?

Who would be the audience or user?

Does the database provide a HELP or User Guide section?

How large is the database? (How many sources does it index?)

What time periods does it cover?

Is it full text, partial text or citation only?

If no full text, then what do you get from the database?

Part 2: Database Usability

Does it have a thesaurus or subject list?

How easy/hard is the database interface to use?

How can the database be searched? Is it user friendly? Be able to demonstrate and describe several methods. Write your examples here to prepare for your classroom demonstration.

Does it offer advanced search mechanisms? Be able to demonstrate and describe. Write your examples here to prepare for your classroom demonstration.