Introduction to Media Theory: MSP 1011

Research help for the course, MSP 1011: Introduction to Media Theory.

Why Use Reference Works?

Young woman sitting at the library using books and laptop Reference works -- like encyclopedias, handbooks, and dictionaries -- provide great overviews and background information.

They help you contextualize your topic and generate questions.
They help identify keywords you can use later when searching for scholarly sources.
They contain bibliographies that lead you to the most respected secondary and most useful primary sources on a topic.

In short, reference works are a great way to begin your research.

Get Background Info

Need to look up a name, place, term, or event? The sources below contain many different kinds of encyclopedias and dictionaries and are excellent starting points for getting an overview on your topic as well as possible search terms to use later. Try them.

Credo Reference This link opens in a new window
Consists of a large collection of reference materials across numerous subject areas.
Gale eBooks This link opens in a new window
Contains a collection of core reference materials across many subject areas.
Oxford Reference Online This link opens in a new window
Consists of a collection of core reference materials across numerous subject areas published by Oxford University Press.
Sage Knowledge This link opens in a new window
Contains a collection of reference encyclopedias and handbooks focused on the social sciences.

Is it Okay to Use Wikipedia?

"Wikipedia? It's a great place to start, and a horrible place to end, at least that's what my professor says."

- PIL Progress Report 2/09

Wikipedia can be a great place to begin finding information on a topic, trend, or issue. You'll need to find additional sources, but Wikipedia articles may help you learn more about your topic. Use the citation list at the bottom of Wikipedia entry pages to lead you to more sources.