Library Guides: COMP-303 Critical Reading and Writing: Reference Resources

About Reference Resources

Reference Resources provide authoritative and concise information to give you ideas and background information on a topic. Some reference databases include coverage of contemporary issues and topics, while others may present both sides of controversial issues.

Reference Resources

CQ Researcher This link opens in a new window
In-depth, non-biased and authoritative coverage of hundreds of social and cultural "hot topics" in all subjects, including many career fields.
Provides in-depth coverage of current issues related to health, social trends, criminal justice, international affairs, education, the environment, technology, and the economy.
More database information from CQ Press.
Video tutorial: CQ Researcher Tour.
Credo Reference This link opens in a new window
Ebook reference titles emphasizing all key disciplines; includes images, encyclopedias, dictionaries, atlases, and handbooks.
How to run a Basic search on Credo
How to use the Mind Map on Credo
Gale eBooks This link opens in a new window
Specialized encyclopedias and reference books.
Various subject encyclopedias covering multiple disciplines.
Video tutorial: "Searching for information in Gale eBooks"

Pew Research
Numbers, facts, and trends shaping the world

Points of View Reference Center This link opens in a new window
Covers current, controversial topics with multiple sides supported, including ethical issues.
Provides essays that present multiple sides of current issues, each with an overview (objective background/description), point (argument), counterpoint (opposing argument), and a Guide to Critical Analysis.
ProCon.org This link opens in a new window
"Our Mission: Promoting critical thinking, education, and informed citizenship by representing controversial issues in a straightforward, nonpartisan, and primarily pro-con format." (Taken from "About Us" on website).

Browse Current Issues of a Journal

Journal Finder + This link opens in a new window
A finding tool for journals and other publications by title (i.e. journal titles, not article titles), by subject, by publisher, or by ISSN/ISBN.
Basic Searching (Also: tips for Advanced Search; Discipline Limited Searching; Browsing features)
Overview tutorial on how to use Journal Finder + (Publication Finder)

Use Journal Finder+ to search, then browse, the selected titles below.

Journal of Future Studies
Journal of Religion & Popular Culture