Research Strategies on James Baldwin
An individual not affiliated with Hobart and William Smith Colleges who is unable to access some of the resources below
should check with their local library for comparable resources.
Take a few moments to think about the following:
- What am I trying to accomplish?
- How interested am I in this idea?
- How much time do I have?
- What information and resources are available?
- Does your issue have sub-topics that you need to know more about?
- What is the assigned length of the research paper?
All research starts with a question:
- For example: Does the issues that James Baldwin raised in this writings relate to issues in today's world?
- Identify keywords and phrases from the research question:
- James Baldwin, social justice, present, now, problems, concerns, equity, systemic inequality, racial discrimination, gender bias, sexuality, heterosexism, homophobia, economic inequality, identity, and racism.
- For tips on identifying keywords explore: "How to pick the best keywords."
- For tips on writing research questions explore: "Writing Strong Research Questions."
Gathering information:
- Search subject-focused encyclopedias and bibliographies:
- Books are often a good place to get ideas or information on a topic. They can help you address your question. In addition, it can lead you to additional resources. explore:
- Articles located in journals, magazines, and newspapers can lead you to a abundance of information, explore:
- Primary source content, including newspaper articles, book reviews, interviews, and other writing:
This guide is based on "James Baldwin: Public Intellectual" created by Kofi Acree, Director of the John Henrik Clarke Africana Library. Adapted with permission from the author.
