Reflections for Practical 6

a.    Do you think it is more effective to search the invisible web (databases) than using search engines, meta-search or subject directories? Why?

In my opinion, searching through online databases is effective if you have a particular topic in mind or require certain specific information. Databases are extremely useful as it contains much information regarding a certain topic and interest and one key advantage is the fact that the information is constantly reviewed and updated. For an instance, Euro monitor International is constantly providing information on various countries consumer lifestyle, industries development and country profile. As such, if I am researching on a particular country, I can employ this database to sieve and understand that country better and more effectively.

In addition, databases sometimes contain some sort of analysis and that analysis is done by a group of professionals who have vet the content and information. As such, it does not provide a very bias analysis and often, the information obtained from databases is very reliable and as a result, enables research to be more effective and efficient. As compared to meta-search engine and search engines, databases may be lacking in images and video content, however, its information is so reliable that it makes researching fuss-free.

b.    Name ONE database which you will use for your research topic. Why?

In my research for the implications and impact of human organ transplant, I employed Lexis Nexis Academic to sieve for past articles on Human Organ Transplant. I think that articles regarding the research topic should be able to provide me with insights of patients, donors or recipients who have gone through organ transplant and could provide their experience doing the operation. Moreover, I did not manage to find any databases that have information on medical aspect and even if I could find one, I seriously doubt I could understand its presented content, since it would most probably contain many medical terminologies. Hence, I chose to research for past articles and opinions of professionals through newspapers and  Lexis Nexis allows me to search for articles across the world.

c.    Name ONE more database which you will use for your course. How will you use this database for your course?

One good source of information for my course, Apparel Design and Merchandising, is WGSN. WGSN is a trend-forecasting database which tracks fashion movement globally and writes reports of new designers, new collection, ideas, mood and colours of the season. In addition, it provides insights into visual merchandising and packaging as well. Hence, I could use WGSN to research on trends and consumer lifestyle before designing the direction and the eventual collection for my course of design.