A500.3.4.RB - Explore the Hunt Library

A500.3.4.RB – Explore the Hunt Library

4 November 2015

Richard Martinez

MSLD 500

           

When you explore the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) Hunt Library you can find a wealth of information in almost any subject area. As a worldwide student with ERAU I am strictly limited to just use the internet to gain access to the Hunt library. With that being said I still have access to all the Hunt library has to offer, even interaction with a librarian. I am able to email a librarian or I can use online chat or call a librarian during operational ours as late at midnight eastern standard time. This becomes a primary resource for me in my studies.   

During my studies for my Masters in Leadership at ERAU I can utilize the Hunt library 24 hours a day seven days a week for research. It allows me to access articles and databases, research guides, videos, and books. I can even have books sent to me to use then return them back to the Hunt library. I am able to search in each of the mediums discussed or I can do a general search for a subject using the EAGLE Search option. One useful tool is that I can find answers to frequently asked questions by asking a question or using a keyword. Most of these resources are considered scholarly in nature.

Most resources are considered scholarly or popular. There are key things that make a resource scholarly. They are publications written by experts for experts in a particular field of study. These resources will always cite all source material used and are subject to peer to peer review.  When peer to peer review is used this will check the validity of its claims and its accuracy. Scholarly publications wish to primarily advance knowledge in a specific field and can incorporate years of research. The individual writing the publication is a specialist in the subject and is almost always a scholar who has scholarly credentials and degrees, and is associated with institutions of higher learning.

Popular sources are more informal in its tone and scope and relies heavily on the work of others. Its research is done by rapidly digesting the content and then gives the public a brief explanation. Its primary goal is to entertain us and make money in the process. Popular sources utilize large amounts of illustrations and is widely available to the public. Most can be found on the internet and is cheaper to acquire than scholarly publications. Popular sources can be professionally edited but are rarely peer to peer reviewed. Individuals with basic literacy skills can understand most popular sources. As your research is being conducted you need to pay special attention to your source material. Some popular source materials are not good for using as research material for schoolwork and writing papers. Always ensure that your material is credited and lists the author as well as has the sources cited.