Question

Thembi is tasked with gathering data on the economic impact of malaria in Sub-Saharan Africa. To avoid irrelevant results, what research strategy should she implement?

Use a single search engine to maintain consistency in search results.

Rely on economic databases and avoid medical databases to keep the focus on economic impact.

Utilise multiple databases with search terms tailored to economic aspects of malaria, employing filters like 'economic impact' AND 'malaria' AND 'Sub-Saharan Africa.'

Search broadly without filters to ensure no data is missed, even if not immediately relevant.



If the answer is 3, indicate why 1 is incorrect.


Limitation of Scope


Omission of Interrelated Data


Risk of Information Overload

Answer 1

The correct research strategy for Thembi is to **utilise multiple databases with search terms tailored to economic aspects of malaria, employing filters like 'economic impact' AND 'malaria' AND 'Sub-Saharan Africa.'** This approach is effective because it allows for a targeted search while also considering various sources of information.

**Why option 1 is incorrect:**

1. **Limitation of Scope:** Using a single search engine may limit the breadth of information available. Different databases can house unique studies, reports, and data that the other may not include, leading to a potentially incomplete overview of the economic impacts of malaria in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Therefore, employing multiple databases will enhance the comprehensiveness of her research by exposing her to a wider array of information and studies.