Writing in dance seeks to examine and construct meaning by finding potential answers to questions. It is incredibly varied. It requires an attention to detail, a critical eye, and most important the ability to analyze and explain the “why” and how it may intersect with other disciplines, such as psychology.
REVIEW ASSIGNMENT CRITERIA: Always a good start
SEARCH STRATEGIES: Create a "search map" of keywords (what works and doesn't work). Is your topic too broad? Too narrow? Keywords will help narrow or broaden your search.
LOCATING SOURCES: Once you identify some sources using the library databases, scan and read summaries, intros, and determine what may or may not work based on your topic.
VARIETY OF SOURCES: Look for a variety of rich resources to help you shape your paper and topic. Once you have some sources, you will find some fit better than others after you dig a bit deeper into the content. The more you dive into your paper, you may discover some sources don't quite work anymore and you don't have to use them.
EVALUATE SOURCES: Don't use sources that either lack depth or are just descriptive. Consider several factors when examining a source: Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, and Purpose. Check the credentials of the author(s) of a work.
DOCUMENTATION AND CITING SOURCES: It's important to cite sources you used in your research for several reasons:
HELP!: Need more research help? Contact me or chat with a reference librarian (in person (CCC 104), phone, email, chat, or text! So many options!).
Looking for something that we do not own? You can request materials from other libraries outside the UW System using our Interlibrary Loan Service.
