Tutor profile: Grace D.

Why am I finding limited or no results when I search for my research topic in an online database?

If you are encountering difficulty finding applicable articles in your chosen database, there are a few strategies you can try to turn up more comprehensive results. First, you may be using search terms and options that are too specific. Try broadening your search to include more results on the general subject area for your topic, which can then lead to more specific sources. Tactics for broadening your search include lessening the number of limiters you are using (e.g. keyword, date range, type of result), using less keyword terms (e.g. if you are using four terms right now, try using just two of them per search), and trying more general terms. Next, you also want to vary the keywords that you are using. Sometimes it takes a number of attempts to land on the right combination of terms to pull up the results you are looking for. If you have tried different word combinations and search parameters and are still not finding the results you need, it may be time to try a different database. Some databases contain generalized information, while others are subject specific. Take a look at the overview of your chosen database to ensure that your topic falls under the subjects covered by that database. While it often seems like all databases pull up the same or similar journals and articles, remember that it is good research practice to query a range of databases to ensure that you are gaining knowledge of a wide breadth of existing research on your topic. One last tip is that databases are not the only avenue to information. If you find one solid source in a database, you should always look at the works cited and bibliography for that source because that can be a treasure trove of articles and books related to your topic. You may also want to perform similar keyword and date searches in your school or local library catalog. In addition to print material, you can often discover e-books, archival material, journal articles, digital material, and more this way.

What is redlining?

Redlining is the practice of cutting off funding from specific areas in urban cores that are deemed unworthy of investment. This practice began with the passing of the National Housing Act of 1934 and the subsequent founding of the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). The name redlining comes from survey maps created by the FHA to identify "good" and "bad" areas of the city. Blue and green were applied to more highly graded areas, whereas yellow and red indicated poorly graded areas. As a result of these practices, mortgage lenders throughout the mid-1900s would only grant mortgages for suburban, higher graded areas, which were often only open to white people. Areas graded as red were typically occupied by people of color and newer immigrants and faced severe disinvestment during this period. In combination with post-war funded and the Federal Highway Act of 1956, the period between 1934-1968 saw significant prioritization of suburban construction and, consequently, white flight from U.S. cities.

What is one major contribution that Frank Lloyd Wright made to the history of architecture in the United States?

Frank Lloyd Wright was an American architect who lived from 1867-1959 and is still today widely regarded as one of the most impactful American architects. Wright is perhaps most known for his focus on organic architecture, an ethos that strives to connect design with humanity and the natural environment. This focus on organic architecture is evident in Wright's designs. For example, Wright's respect for the natural properties of materials and his focus on creating a harmonious relationship between form and function both reflect the principles of organic architecture.