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EDPD 6380 - Race, Equity and Leadership

How do I use a database?

After you have thought about what you want to research and chosen your topic, you need to think of keywords you can use to start your search such as rural schools, equity or rural schools leadership. 

If you think of keywords as hashtags, it can sometimes be easier to come up with a list.  For example, if your research question is "How have online degree programs impacted rural school leadership?" ask yourself, what hashtags would you use if you were going to post something about this on social media? 

  • Hashtags (keywords): online degree programs, rural school leadership, rural principals, rural superintendents

The next step is to think of related words.

  • Online degree programs:  masters degree, PhD, 
  • Rural school leadership:  rural school principals, rural school superintendents, consolidated school leadership, rural school leadership

Now you have some keywords to start your search.

Click on the following tabs on the left to learn more:

  • Developing Keywords
  • Search Tips
  • Evaluate Resources

How to Choose Keywords