Once you have an assignment or topic, it's time to start researching. You can split this into three stages:
The pages in this section explain each of these stages individually.
It's easy to assume that the research process is linear - you type your search in, select your results and start writing your assignment.
In reality, research is an exploratory process which is much more messy. As you search for information, you'll find new ideas and remove ones which don't work. You are constantly revising your plans.
Although we've broken this guide into separate pages, you don't need to follow the exact order - you'll jump around between the sections as you work.
Your module tutor creates a list of resources for each module. You can find the link on the 'Resource Lists' link on GCU Learn or by searching library's resource list page (listed below) for your module name.
Resource Lists are only a starting point for your research. As you progress and begin to complete your assignments you will need to find good academic resources independently to support your arguments and to evidence the points you are making.
If you're struggling with the searching process, we're here to help - visit the How we can help page to contact us.