What is a database? How are they different from Google?
Answer
A database is a searchable, organized collection of credible information. In library research, a database is a small collection where you find scholarly journal articles or news articles. Each database contains thousands of articles that will cover your subject area. To find articles that cover your research topic, try using NAU's Library Subject Guides. One of the benefits of using the library's Subject Guides, is that your subject librarian has advised you on good databases to use for your specific research.
Google is a collection of information, but it's not organized. Anyone can post a website! Using Google doesn't guarantee finding scholarly information in your subject area. Additionally, when anyone uses Google he/she might find blogs and websites by non-academic organizations that might not be credible. Also, it's easier to find Scholarly/Peer Reviewed articles that are necessary for Academic work in an NAU database.
Unlike Google, databases need to be searched with keywords NOT sentences. This short tutorial will guide you through several searches using the NAU OneSearch box: Smart Searching Part 1: New OneSearch box.