Information for Distance Learners - Databases

What are databases?

Students who are matriculated on distance-learning programmes also have access to the various full-text and bibliographic databases to which QM subscribes. A database is an electronic resource where journal articles, book chapters and conference papers are indexed. Databases provide a sophisticated way to search for and find relevant, subject-specific resources.

What do they do?

Traditionally, databases provide the means to finding articles - they provide you with the citation details (title of the article, the author(s), the journal title it is from and year, volume and page numbers). Sometimes, an abstract for the article, which will provide a brief overview, is included. Increasingly, databases now provide a link straight through to the online full text of the resource (this is dependent on subscription and availability).

Look out for the 'LinkSource' logo Check LinkSource for more information for connections to link through to the full-text as well as PDF and html links. It will also give a link to the library catalogue to indicate if a journal is in stock in print form in the LRC.

Where can I find them?

There are two routes to finding relevant databases, either from the Databases alphabetic list or via the Subject Resources pages. The 'Subject Resources' pages provide links to the best databases for specific subject areas as well as links to other relevant resources.

Where can I get help?

The more databases you use, the more you will find that although there will be slight differences between each of them, they all follow the same general principles. Each database will have its own help pages and occasionally a tutorial demonstration.

It is important to remember that searching databases is a process of planning and evaluation. If you find that you're not finding relevant resources, it may be because different keywords need to be used. For help and more information about successful searching see our range of interactive tutorials.