The Internet may provide a fine start for your research, but you should not restrict yourself to online searches alone. Most public and university libraries have searchable databases, or catalogs, that include the library's entire collection of reference materials, nonfiction books, magazines, and journal articles, as well as any multimedia available at the library or one of its branches. In many cases, the catalog can be accessed from your home or school using an Internet connection. If you have access to one of these catalogs, you can use the same search terms you used for your Internet search to explore the catalog.
A face-to-face or email interview is another great way to gain information from people who already know a great deal about the topic. Experts such as professionals in a related field of work or study, college professors, or journalists who have written about the topic can provide unique insights related to your research question. Who should you try to track down for information or insight about your topic? Use this activity to start thinking about the best "expert" to ask, based on your research question. Drag each potential interviewee to the question he or she could answer best.
your fire department's chief
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How do local officials know what to do when a natural or man-made disaster occurs?
How was the public informed about local emergencies before the invention of the telephone?
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a high school physics teacher
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How has scientists' study of outer space changed in the past 20 years?
How has the role of government in education changed in the past 100 years?
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a relative who works for a newspaper or local television network
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What role does advertising play in how the news is reported?
How much news is distributed through newspapers versus television broadcasts?
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a member of a popular local band
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How did social media become the best way to build a fan base?
What is it like to use social media as "advertising"?
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