|
Database
A database provides
a way of organizing information so that you can easily find what
you are looking for. Some types of databases are:
Print
Databases
The index of a book is a print database. It allows you to go
quickly to a topic in the book. A phone book is another type
of print database. |
|
Electronic
Databases
We usually think of searchable electronic indexes and catalogs
when we refer to databases. WebPALS, InfoTrac, Academic Search
Premier, and JSTOR are examples of electronic databases. They
let you quickly go to a topic in books or periodicals.
|
In
an electronic database each article or book has its own record,
which provides information about it.
Each record is composed of individual pieces of information called
fields. Fields include such information as the author, title, publisher,
subject heading, etc. for that item. Each of these fields is a searchable
access point to the information.
|
