Now that you know what question(s) to ask, the next step is to systematically search for relevant and valid information and data to help answer the question.
Anyone can do a quick Internet search and pull up information on a wide variety of subjects, but that does not necessarily mean that the articles are relevant or reliable. Specific search engines are available that are tailored toward academic inquiry. These engines help sort the "wheat from the chaff," providing more robust references and articles. Some examples are listed below.
(Note: we will revisit the search and assessment steps once we are finished outlining the entire process).
Examples of Search Engines:
Examples of Reliable Resource Sites:
- American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
- College of American Pathologists (CAP)
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Department of Health for your state or others
- Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
- American Heart Association (AHA)