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KansasCOM Library

Getting Started with Research

SAGE Research Methods is a great way to learn about research, creating and planning your research projects and even search for funding. Highlights include:

Library Account Login

You can search the library catalog, One Search, from anywhere you have internet access. You will see results whether or not you login to your account. You will need to login to your library account to see the full results for any search. It is a good idea to establish a habit of logging into your account. Your login information is the same one you use to access the student portal and all other KansasCOM resources such as email and Canvas. (Single sign on, SSO).

By logging in to your library account you will be able to:

  • Save searches
  • Save search results
  • Easily submit interlibrary loan requests: Article copies

  • To begin your search, enter your search term:

  • You will likely get too many results! Our library has millions of digital article and book records available.

  • Using the 'Advanced Search' you can enter additional search terms to be more specific and reduce the number of results

  • Once you have narrowed down your search you can:
    • Save your search
    • Examine individual results by selecting the title
    • View the full text, cite, save the item to your account, and more!
  • Use the push pin to save the item, select 'Save Query' to save your search
    • Saving searches is handy if you don't have time to examine your results or if you want to re-use the search later and see any new results that may have been added

Searching

If you've searched using any kind of database or even only used a search engine, like Google or Bing, you should have some idea about how to search using the KansasCOM Library. Even if you haven't, the basic features should be a little intuitive.

Ultimately, the library staff encourages you to reach out for help as needed. We are here to help you understand how to search for research studies, background information, practice guidelines and about anything else you may be interested in locating.

Tips for Searching Library Resources

  • Use advanced search features when possible to limit your results
  • Use one word or term or phrase per search blank to search more effectively
  • Use tools to limit your results; these are things like: language, dates, resource type (usually located in a menu bar on the left side of the screen)
  • Take advantage of using Boolean operators when searching: AND, OR, NOT
    • AND limits results to those that contain all of the search terms you have used
    • OR broadens your search to include everything that mentions any of your search terms
      • this can be helpful if you're not sure what terms might yield results
    • NOT excludes results that contain terms you want to avoid in order to limit your results
    • If there aren't drop-down menus for Boolean operators and only one search blank is available, enter the operators between search terms in ALL CAPS
      • Usually you will see multiple search blanks when you elect to do an advanced search

Check out the information about Evidence-Based Medicine and searching farther down on this webpage for specific help with medical research

Set-up an appointment with the library's medical librarian for assistance with searching. Consult our expert researcher! See the 'Schedule an Appointment' box on the left.

Why Publish?

Providing a solid CV that demonstrates your commitment to research and academic excellence can play a vital role in your match for residency and other post-graduate experiences. Fortunately, publication experience dating back to your time as an undergraduate can be listed. It can be daunting to look at the average number or publications for various specialties and you may worry you won't be competitive. There are multiple experiences you can take advantage of during your time as a medical student. However, this information is intended for those seeking to publish in professional journals. 

What counts as a publication?

  • peer-reviewed journal articles/abstracts
  • peer-reviewed journal articles/abstracts (other than published)
  • peer-reviewed book chapter
  • scientific monograph
  • poster presentation
  • oral presentation

There are three main types of articles you may choose to write:

Remember, librarians can help with literature reviews!

Where to Publish

There are many well regarded publications that focus on student research and others that welcome submissions by medical students. This list is not intended to be comprehensive of every publication, but a place to begin. The links will take you to the publisher's author requirements which will provide needed information when preparing a manuscript for submission. An additional note has been added if the publication is available in our library. 

Poster Template

Use this template to prepare a poster session for an upcoming conference or presentation.

Tips for Creating Your Poster

We recommend downloading the KHSU-KansasCOM poster templates with school logos/colors on them. There are three templates that have pre-labeled sections to aid in formulating and formatting content. This is a great time saver. 

Do:

  • identify resources
  • plan poster
  • be brief & to the point
  • select contrasting colors
  • select an easily readable font

Don't:

  • use ALL CAPS
  • have more than 10 words in your title
  • use more than 2-3 contrasting colors
  • procrastinate
  • use paragraphs or large blocks of text

Seven Steps to Success

  • Story
    • just as with any story you write, a poster should contain a title, beginning, middle and conclusion
    • keep in mind that our eyes are trained to read content left to right, top to bottom, in columns
  • Style
    • visual appeal: catch the reader's eye
    • manageability: overview of message, don't be too detailed
    • hierarchy: use headings, color, text and images to showcase important information
  • ​​​​​​Simplicity
    • decide upon one style for your images, graphics, and photos
  • Size
    • use fonts and images that are easy to read and interpret, don't go microscopic!
  • Statistics
    • use research, articles, and statistics to support your information; make sure they are current, reliable and on topic
  • Sources
    • use quotes and give credit to your sources to establish credibility
  • Shareability
    • provide readers with tools they need to follow up for more information

References

  • Briggs, D. J. (2009). A practical guide to designing a poster for presentation. Nursing Standard, 23(34), 35-39.
  • Crane, B. E. (2016). Infographics: A practical guide for librarians. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield.
  • Miller, J. E., & Bloustein, E. J. (2007). Preparing and presenting effective research posters. Health Services Research, 42(1P1), 311-328. doi:10.1111/j.1475-6773.2006.00588.x
  • Persky, A. M. (2016). Scientific posters: A plea from a conference attendee. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 80(10), 1-3.
  • Rose, T. M. (2017). An illustrated guide to poster design. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 81(7), 1
  • Siedlecki, S. L. (2017). How to create a poster that attracts an audience. AJN American Journal of Nursing, 117(3), 48-54.
  • Taggart, H., & Arslanian, C. (2000). Creating an effective poster presentation. Orthopaedic Nursing, 19(3), 47-52.