After using OneSearch, try out some other databases on the Library website in order to find even more sources for your paper. Our entire list of databases can be found by clicking on the green "Databases" button on the Library homepage. Our recommendations for this assignment are listed below.
Best Database for Historical Context
The video (1:38) below will give you a quick overview of U.S. History in Context; however, for in-depth, step-by-step help with using U.S. History in Context, we recommend taking a look at our Opposing Viewpoints in Context Guide. Although the guide focuses on a different database, it is made by the same company (Gale) and looks/operates exactly the same as U.S. History in Context.
U.S. History in Context Tips: click on the "Browse Topics" button (located near the top of the U.S. History in Context homepage) and take a look at their pages for different decades in the 1900s (e.g. 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, etc.), then...
Best Databases for Streaming Media (Video/Film)
Use the 2 databases below to try and find videos or films related to your topic. Start by trying some of the same searches we used earlier (e.g. Asian Americans in film or African American portrayals on television); however, if you're having trouble finding videos on your exact topic, you can broaden your search to find videos on more general topics (like ethnic studies, media arts, American history, diversity, etc.) that can help you form the entire picture surrounding your chosen racial group's representation over time. Additionally, you might be able to find/watch the actual films and television shows you're referencing in your paper!
The video tutorials linked below will give you a quick introduction to the databases. We also recommend taking a look at Alexander Street's "All Channels" page and Films on Demand's "Explore Subjects" page to help get you started with browsing and finding relevant material.
Examples of videos/films for this assignment (Library login required):
Other Websites
LAVC librarians recommend conducting the vast majority of your research through the Valley College Library website (instead of Google); however, there are some occasions when other, outside websites might be really helpful. For this particular assignment, we recommend 2 outside websites that we think might be help you with your research paper: IMDb and Wikipedia.