Visit the following web address to the EOU library: http://pierce.eou.edu/ . There you will find search options for various databases. If you are not using an EOU internet connection, you will be required to log in using your EOU library barcode. Online students may obtain a barcode by requesting it from the libarary.  These databases are very helpful as you look up articles related to the field of physical activity and health. You will want to use search engines such as Ebscohost and Firstsearch. Some articles will have the full-text version so you can download and read it immediately. Others may be available to read at a nearby library. In some instances, you may need to order the article through inter-library loan and a copy will be emailed to you. Become familiar with the different search methods that can be used.

When looking for primary academic sources, there are many factors that should be considered. One is the reputation of the source. Many articles that have a journal in the title are periodicals that are peer-reviewed and reputable. A good practice is to look at the journal titles listed in the bibliography of various textbooks you use for your classes. Since the authors are usually leaders in their field, they will have thoughtfully chosen reliable sources for their information. Most primary research articles have the following components: abstract at the beginning, introduction, methods, results, discussion, and conclusions. Articles written in this format are usually reliable primary sources when published in a reputable journal. Other non-research related articles can also be accessed on these databases. Choosing to limit your searches to peer reviewed helps you access accurate articles that professionals in the field value and have approved. Secondary sources where information is referenced second hand from another source (many websites and textbooks) should be avoided in academic papers.