Question

Which of the following statements accurately describes a difference between a research database and a research search engine?

A. Research databases are more similar to general search engines than research search engines.
B. Research databases are easier to use than research search engines.
C. Research search engines are mostly sponsored by universities, whereas research databases are commercial products.
D. Research databases are repositories of print information, unlike research search engines, which are online.
E. A research database is more specific than a research search engine.

Answer 1

A research database is more specific than a research search engine, as it provides access to peer-reviewed scholarly publications and is often subscription-based. Reference librarians can assist in navigating these databases effectively.

Step-by-step explanation:

One of the main differences between a research database and a research search engine is that a research database tends to be more specific than a research search engine. While research search engines may index a wide variety of sources and help in casting a broader net for information, research databases are often subscription-based services that provide access to a wealth of academic and professional publications, including indexed articles from specialized scholarly and technical journals. Hence, the answer to the student's question is E. A research database is more specific than a research search engine. This specificity usually translates into a more focused and refined search capability, offering peer-reviewed articles, conference proceedings, and other academically rigorous material.

A librarian or a reference librarian can be invaluable when navigating through the wealth of information available in databases, helping to refine search terms and providing guidance on the best research strategies. A general-interest database may serve as an excellent starting point for research, covering a multitude of topics across various sources. As research becomes more focused, subject databases become essential, providing comprehensive information related to specialized areas of study.