Online Class: Basic Research Skills

This course empowers you to master both traditional and digital research methods, equipping you with the ability to find reliable, accurate information quickly and efficiently. Covering everything from library systems and academic journals to search engines and news sources, this self-paced course provides practical tools for research across various fields.
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  • 11
    Lessons
  • 13
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 4,667
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 5
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.5
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Unlock the secrets to mastering information in today's fast-paced, information-saturated world with Basic Research Skills. This course is not just about finding facts—it’s about empowering you to become an expert at discovering reliable, accurate information faster than ever before. Whether you're navigating complex academic topics, working on career-defining projects, or simply looking to sharpen your knowledge base, this course gives you the competitive edge by teaching you how to research smarter, deeper, and with more precision.

In Basic Research Skills, you’ll discover the true power of research—beyond just Google searches. Learn how to leverage the Dewey Decimal System to unlock your library’s hidden treasures, explore the overlooked potential of dictionaries and thesauruses to refine your writing, and tap into encyclopedias, almanacs, and atlases to gain insights only seasoned researchers know about. From navigating Internet search engines like a pro to discovering reputable news sources and specialized academic journals, this course covers every aspect of finding the information you need—quickly, accurately, and comprehensively.

Whether you're a student preparing for exams, a professional advancing your career, or someone with a passion for knowledge, this course is your all-in-one solution for mastering research in today's complex world. You’ll leave this course not just with knowledge but with a lifelong skill that will serve you in every area of your life.

What Sets This Course Apart:

  • Comprehensive Coverage: From library systems to digital news and academic databases, this course covers research tools you never knew you needed.
  • Practical & Real-World Application: Each lesson is designed to provide strategies you can use immediately—no fluff, just actionable insights.
  • Self-Paced Freedom: Learn on your own time, at your own speed, with the flexibility to fit this course into any schedule.

Why Choose This Course? Imagine having the ability to find exactly what you need for any project, presentation, or personal curiosity—accurately, efficiently, and without wasting hours on unreliable information. Basic Research Skills equips you with the knowledge to cut through the noise and confidently navigate the vast world of information. And with lessons that cater to both traditional research methods and modern digital tools, you’ll have the best of both worlds.

Don’t settle for surface-level research—become a true expert in finding the information you need. Enroll today and take control of your learning journey. Your future self will thank you for it.

Courses Frequently Bought Together:
  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.31 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(3,365 votes)

Lesson 1: Why Research Is Important

11 Points
Research is often thought of as a dry, academic endeavor, but its importance stretches far beyond the confines of classrooms and laboratories. At its core, research is a tool that empowers us to make informed decisions, refine our perspectives, and elevate our understanding of the world around us.
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Research; Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: An Introduction
  • Assessment: Lesson 1: Why Research Is Important

Lesson 2: Your Local Library

8 Points
In today's fast-paced digital age, the concept of visiting a physical library may seem outdated to some, as many people rely solely on online resources. However, libraries are not merely relics of the past; they are vibrant hubs of knowledge, learning, and discovery, offering tools and resources far beyond what many realize.
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Libraries
  • Assessment: Lesson 2: Library Use

Lesson 3: The Dewey Decimal System

9 Points
The Dewey Decimal System, though often taken for granted by library visitors, is a revolutionary method of organizing knowledge. Developed by Melvil Dewey in 1876, it allows libraries to categorize and structure their collections in a way that makes it easier for users to find what they need.
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 3: Dewey Decimal System

Lesson 4: The Dictionary

9 Points
A dictionary is an often-overlooked yet indispensable tool in any researcher's toolkit. While many people associate dictionaries with quick lookups of unfamiliar words, their value extends far beyond this. A dictionary serves as a bridge between understanding and articulation, ensuring that the words we use are not only accurate but also contextually appropriate. Additional lesson topics: Using Reverse Dictionaries for Keyword Research
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 4: A Dictionary

Lesson 5: The Thesaurus

7 Points
A thesaurus is more than just a tool for finding synonyms—it is a gateway to a richer, more nuanced way of communicating ideas. In both writing and speaking, the words we choose have immense power, shaping not only how we express ourselves but also how our message is received.
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 5: A Thesaurus

Lesson 6: Encyclopedias, Almanacs, and Atlases

7 Points
In the age of the internet, where information is just a few clicks away, traditional reference materials like encyclopedias, almanacs, and atlases might seem like relics of the past. However, these resources remain invaluable tools for conducting thorough, reliable research. In fact, their continued relevance is demonstrated by their presence in modern libraries and online repositories. Additional lesson topics: Using Reference Skills
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 6: Encyclopedias, Almanacs, And Atlases

Lesson 7: Internet Search Engines

10 Points
The internet, with its vast reach and instant accessibility, has revolutionized the way we conduct research. It offers an unparalleled wealth of information, from scholarly articles and books to news reports and blog posts. However, the sheer volume of information available can make it challenging to sift through and find credible, reliable data.
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Search Engines
  • Assessment: Lesson 7: Internet Search Engines

Lesson 8: Internet News Sources

9 Points
When you get online in the morning, one of the first things you might do is go onto a news site to find out what has happened in the world. Additional lesson topics: Set up Google Alerts
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 8: Internet News Sources

Lesson 9: Additional Online Resources

10 Points
In the modern era of online research, where opinions, discussions, and visuals flow freely across the digital landscape, it is essential to harness diverse sources to develop well-rounded, informed perspectives.
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 9: Internet Magazines, Blogs, And Images

Lesson 10: The Transformative Power of Scholarly Research

10 Points
When it comes to conducting in-depth research, particularly in academic settings, the importance of scholarly journals, academic papers, and peer-reviewed studies cannot be overstated. These sources form the foundation of rigorous research, providing access to well-documented, peer-reviewed information that adds credibility and weight to any project. Additional lesson topics: Finding Journal Articles; Scholarly Articles
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 10: Journals, Papers, And More

Lesson 11: Bibliographies

60 Points
In the world of research, bibliographies serve as hidden gold mines, often overlooked yet immensely valuable. A well-crafted bibliography not only provides a roadmap to the sources an author used but also offers insight into the broader context of the topic being explored.
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Let us know what you think of this course; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments
  • Assessment: Lesson 11: Bibliographies
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
150
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Describe why research is important.
  • Describe library use.
  • Describe dewey decimal system.
  • Demonstrate dictionary usage.
  • Demonstrate thesaurus usage.
  • Demonstrate encyclopedias, almanacs, and atlases usage.
  • Demonstrate internet search engines usage for research.
  • Identify Internet news sources.
  • Identify internet magazines, blogs, and images.
  • Identify journals, papers, and more.
  • Summarize bibliographies and their usage in research.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Basic Research Skills
Course Number: 7550472
Lessons Rating: 4.31 / 5 Stars (3,365 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: With online access available nationwide, this course reaches all U.S. states, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. Additionally, it’s open to learners in English-speaking countries such as the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
Last Updated: December 2023
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 0.5 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: UniversalClass Instructional Team
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "This course was helpful as a refresher course for me. Course work covered all the basics needed to begin developing research skills." -- Bridget B.
  • "This class exceeded my expectations. I learned so much. I feel that I can fully use all of the information covered. This class opened my eyes to how little I know and how much there is to know." -- Jimmie S.
  • "I feel the course covered multiple resources for research including academia which really informed me of how much and many ways research can be done. The flow of the research tools put together in each lesson made it easier for me to follow. Very pleased!" -- Catherine W.
  • "I haven't been in school or had to do serious research for school for 37 years, so I had forgotten some of the ways to research the old school way which was very helpful." -- Roselle W.
  • "I thought the instructor covered all aspects of the research topics that could be covered extremely well and I enjoyed the class very much." -- Sue P.
  • "Overall a worthwhile experience and I learned alot!" -- Jeffrey I.
  • "This course was succinct and left little to no questions for me to consider." -- Laura A.
  • "The instructor was very knowledgeable professional." -- Stella M.
  • "Great instructor and course material." -- Sharon C.
  • "Beautiful, informative." -- Serene R.
View More Testimonials...
 

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