The Internet vs. The Online Database What’s the difference?

by Emily Copi

www.mariemontschools.org/hslibrary/.../internetVonline database.ppt

The Internet is… A vast network of computers around the globe that share information.

How is the Internet accessed?

Most people use the World Wide Web- A tiny part of the Internet where documents, or “websites,” communicate with each other using a special language called html.

What kind of information can I get from a Website?

Commericals Personal Opinions Very current news Academic research Entertainment sites Government and non-profit organization materials Hoaxes and Scams

Information of all kinds—both truth AND lies!

What is an Online Database?

• A collection of data presented in a searchable, online format.

• Information is reviewed and published—therefore, trustworthy.

• Often provides publications that are 10, 20, 30 or more years old.

How is an Online Database accessed?

• Uses an Internet Browser to navigate (but NOT considered a website!) • Usually only accessible to subscribers with a username and password.

– Libraries usually subscribe to several

and provide free access to patrons!

What types of information can I get from an Online Database? Graphics and Photos Newspaper Articles Magazine Articles Reference Book Items Scholarly Journals Primary Source Documents Maps and Statistics

Highly reputable sources!

When should I use the Internet for research?

     When seeking information from a government or non-profit organization.

When going to a specific Website.

When looking for information on a unique or obscure topic. When comparison shopping.

When looking for very current news.



When you don’t mind evaluating the content of the Website!

   When should I use an Online Database for research?

When looking for full-text newspaper, journal, or magazine articles.

When looking for biographical information.

When looking for primary resources, maps, or statistics.

 When you don’t want to spend valuable research time evaluating your resources!

Now that you understand the differences between the Internet and the Online Database, be sure to check out which online databases your library offers!