Skip to Main Content

Speech Class | Culture Research (Knox)

Research information and resources.

The research PROCESS

You've explored general resources, settled on a topic ... now what? 

  • Do a few quick searches on your topic. Determine whether or not there's enough information for a 5 to 7 minute speech. If there's not, move on. Choose another area of research.
  • Keep in mind, you will encounter A LOT of results that have absolutely no connection to your topic. Why?!
  • Search engines (both those used in library databases and web browsers like Google Chrome) are machines and only respond to the combination of letters and words that comprise search terms or phrases. Search engines are not capable of understanding the full content or context of a resource.

The search process | Tips & tricks

  • Accept that the process might be frustrating, even downright discouraging. Research is like detective work. Look for clues beyond just the keyword(s). If your keyword(s) and phrases aren't working, consider where you might find more information.  
  • Try different combinations of keyword(s) and phrases; combine them with and without quotation marks. Quotation marks around terms indicated they should stay together.
  • Don't be afraid to use the Advanced Search function and combine terms with AND, OR, or BUT, reworking them to find exactly what you need.
  • If you find a great source, often there are links to similar articles. Look for an EXPLORE box and More Like This.
  • Remember, it is okay to choose a new topic; the exact information for which you're looking might not exist or might not be accessible. 
  • Be patient. It's a process.
  • Leave yourself enough time to research, write your outline, and prep your speech.
  • Reach out for help if you get stuck! My contact info is on the left.

Remember to keep track of your articles

  • Library databases have tools that allow users to share resources with a link or by downloading, emailing, or saving to a cloud platform.
  • Copying and pasting the browser URL of an article (to save or organize) isn't helpful. That link will not return you to the resource. Instead look for the following:
    • Get Link at the top of the page in the toolbar of Gale databases
    • Screenshot of Gale toolbar
    • Share and Create link in EBSCO databases
    • Screenshot of EBSCO share and create link
Western Technical College

Western Technical College Learning Commons
Student Success Center, Room 201
400 7th Street North
La Crosse, WI 54601
learningcommons@westerntc.edu
State Relay: 711
EEO Statement

Learn more about Western and the Learning Commons.
The Learning Commons provides library and academic support services on campus and online. The Learning Commons will set you up for success!

Creative Commons License
Except where otherwise noted, this work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. For details and exceptions, see the Library Copyright Statement.
©2025, Western Technical College
If you are experiencing disability related accessibility issues with any information on this website, please email AccessServices@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9524.