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Research Skills for Engineering Students
- Research Skills For Engineering StudentsThis tutorial consists of 2-5 minute video modules. It covers:
1) Brainstorming concepts & keywords for a search
2) Differentiating between & evaluating information
3) Google & Google Scholar
4) UBC Summon
5) Finding technical & scholarly information using academic databases
6) Standards & patents: What they are & how to find them
7) When & how to cite your sources
Key Resources
For a specific article title you are looking for, Summon is a good place to start. Summon lets you simultaneously search the Library's book collection and many full text journal articles.
If you're searching for articles on a topic, you'll probably want to search a database which is more focused on biomedical engineering than Summon. Here are some starting points for finding engineering journal articles or conference proceedings. Look for the UBC eLink icons to check for full text articles.
- PubMed (1946 - present) This link opens in a new windowPremier database containing with a focus on biomedicine. Freely available and includes MEDLINE. This link goes to the version wiht UBC eLink.
For help searching PubMed, refer to the guide: https://guides.library.ubc.ca/pubmed - Compendex Engineering Village This link opens in a new windowPremier engineering database, covering the core literature of the engineering field, including related specialties and technologies.
- Scopus This link opens in a new windowSearch citations and abstracts for journal articles, conference proceedings, and other resources in the sciences, social sciences, arts, and humanities. Can also be used for cited reference searches, citation analysis of research and searching by affiliation.
- Web of Science Core Collection This link opens in a new windowMultidisciplinary database of journal articles and conference proceedings, used for citation analysis of research. Includes access to EndNote Basic, a web-based version of EndNote.
Anatomy TV
In addition to article databases, UBC has reference databases like Anatomy TV
Anatomy TV is a three-dimensional interactive anatomy resource that includes over 6500 models of human anatomy. These models focus on individual organs, regions of the body, or anatomical systems. The 3D images can be peeled away in layers and anatomical models can be rotated 360 degrees to demonstrate the interaction of nerves, muscles, ligaments, and bones. Built-in self-assessment quizzes are also included. Images and clips can be used in online courses.
Related Guides
Knowledge Synthesis
Systematic, Scoping and other Review Search Methodology
To arrange for a knowledge synthesis consultation, please complete this Knowledge Synthesis Consult Form.
Before you begin review this checklist.
A knowledge synthesis requires:
- a team
- a significant amount of time to complete
- adherence to transparent and rigorous methods
- a strong project management component
- commitment, clear and open communication among all team members
- patience to get through the learning curve of the process
Read a comprehensive Readiness Checklist provided by Unity Health Toronto.