The literature search and review is the starting point for any assignment topic.
Generally, you are expected to use research-based scholarly resources, books and journals, in preference to information found on websites or in newspapers.
Start your library research as early as possible to allow time to identify the resources you need and access books that are print only.
The scope of the literature search and type of information required will depend on the requirements of the assignment.
Books provide a useful starting point for an introduction to the subject. Books generally also provide an in-depth coverage of a topic.
Journal Articles: for current research or information on specific aspects of the topic. Limit your search to peer reviewed journals.
Reports and publications from government, professional and research organizations: generally referred to as the grey literature and freely available via the internet. These publications are a good source of statistical data (e.g. reports from Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, World Health Organization).
Use Library search as a starting point to find books and a few journal articles on a topic. For a more specific search for journal articles search the subject specific databases. e.g. MEDLINE.
You can access the databases or Library search, from the Library homepage or link from the subject guides.
Edith Cowan University acknowledges and respects the Noongar people, who are
the traditional custodians of the land upon which its campuses stand and its programs
operate.
In particular ECU pays its respects to the Elders, past and present, of the Noongar
people, and embrace their culture, wisdom and knowledge.