This research guide has been created to specifically help students enrolled in SSI2-168. For more information on navigating library resources during the Spring 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, please go to Remote Access to Library Services and Resources.
BEAM is an acronym intended to help you think about the various ways you might use sources when writing a researched argument. Joseph Bizup, an English professor at Boston University, outlined the framework in a 2008 article. The idea has since been refined and adapted by many others.
Tertiary sources, such as subject encyclopedias and textbooks, are excellent starting points in your research. Use them to find:
At Collins Library, you can access subject encyclopedias in a variety of formats: print, ebook, or via larger digital collections.
Print encyclopedias are located on the first floor of the library, across from the Learning Commons.
Specific online encyclopedias can be searched for and accessed via PRIMO, the library's discovery platform.
Large digital collections of subject encyclopedias can be accessed via several publisher-based platforms.
The following subject encyclopedias are likely to be especially useful for this course.
Encyclopedia of Buddhism by 
Encyclopedia of Religion by 
Nanzan Guide to Japanese Religions by 
Fall 2020
Appointments
Allie and Hannah are also available for individual appointments. Go to our Schedule a Research Appointment page, click the request button, and select either Hannah or Allie from the drop-down menu to see what appointment times they have available.
If you have any questions about when or how to cite the sources you are using, consult the library's Citation Tools page. If you still have questions, please don't hesitate to ask any librarian! We're here to help you!