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Define a database thesaurus and describe its primary function for a researcher who is conducting a literature search in a database such as PsycINFO.
Question: Define a database thesaurus and describe its primary function for a researcher who is conducting a literature search in a database such as PsycINFO.
Sample answer: A database thesaurus is a built-in search tool designed to help researchers identify the appropriate standardized index terms for their literature search. Its primary function is to provide more specific index terms when an initial search term is too broad and returns an overwhelming number of results, thereby helping to narrow down the records to highly relevant articles.
Key points:
- A database thesaurus is a built-in database search tool
- It helps researchers identify appropriate standardized index terms
- It provides more specific index terms when an initial search term is too broad
- It helps narrow search results to locate highly relevant articles
Rubric: To receive full credit, the answer must: 1) Identify the database thesaurus as a built-in tool within a database. 2) Explain that it helps users find standardized index terms. 3) State that its primary purpose is to help narrow down an overly broad search to find more specific, highly relevant articles.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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