This module will review the resources and navigation of database SAGE Research Methods (SRM) and the benefits of using SRM during the research design process.

Learning Objectives

• Understand how to access and search the SAGE Research Methods (SRM) content
• Identify how to create and add content to "My Profile"
• Navigate and understand benefits of "Methods Map"
• Identify GCU resources for assistance with research

What is SAGE Research Methods (SRM)?

SAGE Research Methods (SRM) is a collection of material and sources focusing on research and methodology and is designed to help researchers develop research designs and gain a deeper understanding about the research process. SRM can be used across subject disciplines as the content focus is on research methodology and not on individual subject disciplines.

What Types of Resources and Content is Available on SAGE Research Methods?

SAGE Research Methods contains content from books, dictionaries, encyclopedias, and handbooks, including the entire "Little Green Book," and "Little Blue Book" series. Also included are tutorials and videos, in addition to several hundred journal articles. SRM focuses on qualitative, quantitative, and biographical research, visual methods, and secondary data analysis. SRM features several tools, such as a methods map, project planner, and a tool for narrowing down which stats test to use.

How Do I Access SAGE Research Methods?

The GCU Library has subscribed to SAGE Research Methods (SRM), as well as SAGE Research Methods Cases, SAGE Research Methods Video Collection, and SAGE Practical Research & Academic Skills Video Collection. Current GCU students, faculty and staff can use their GCU username and password to access all resources on the GCU Library's website, including SRM. To locate SRM, visit the Find Journal Articles page. You can choose "Doctoral Research" from the subject dropdown menu or click the S and find SAGE in the alphabetical list. After locating and clicking on the "SAGE Research Methods" link on the Find Journal Articles page, enter your GCU credentials on the login page to gain access to the content.

Navigating in SAGE Research Methods

Similar to other research databases, SAGE Research Methods (SRM) has basic and advanced search features and the ability to browse by type of resource (videos, encyclopedias, dictionaries, books, articles). The most powerful way to explore SRM is via the "Methods Map". Choose "Methods Map" on the homepage to open it.

The Methods Map is a tool to help visualize the relationship between different types of research. The map includes an entry for every method concept covered by SRM. Clicking on a concept recenters the map to add more concepts and their connections.

Video: How to Start Your Research 

My Profile

SRM includes a feature to save selected content to an individual profile. Users can create a free account within SRM that allows the saving of content to a list to review and access later. It is also possible to share your personal lists with other SRM users. To create an account, click "My Profile" near the top of SRM and choose "Create My Profile." 

Further help on using SRM can be found on their help page.

Video: Methods Map

Where Can I find Help with SAGE Research Methods and Other Research Needs?

The GCU Library provides access to several hundred databases. SAGE Research Methods is just one of the great resources in the collection. When developing research methodology and finalizing decisions regarding research design, SRM is a powerful assistive tool for discovering methodology and guidance about performing different types of research. When researching subject specific material, it is important to perform an expansive search of the published literature using other databases.

The GCU Librarians are available to assist with all research questions, including methodology design research. Contact the GCU Library today to jump start your methodology selection, discuss your search strategies for your literature review or for help with navigation of the library's website. The GCU Library's search experts are your partners in the research process.

Librarians are available to help by phone, email, chat, videoconference, and in person at the GCU Library on the Phoenix campus. For current hours and contact information, visit the GCU Library's Contact Us page.