Palesa is researching traditional medicinal practices in KwaZulu-Natal and their integration into modern healthcare. To access a broad range of interdisciplinary resources, what should her research strategy include?

Question

Focus only on medical journals to obtain scientifically validated information.

Use a single database to keep the search process simple and more manageable.

Include various databases such as medical, anthropological, and regional studies, utilizing advanced search options to tailor the results.

Use non-academic search engines exclusively for a wider public perspective.

The correct answer is 3, why is 2 incorrect?


This approach can simplify the search process, but it severely limits the range of available information. Palesa would likely miss out on diverse sources of information found in specialized databases, such as those focusing on regional studies or specific disciplines like anthropology, which are essential for a comprehensive understanding of her topic.


This approach may not cover the anthropological and sociocultural aspects of traditional medicine. Palesa's research is interdisciplinary, requiring not just medical but also anthropological, sociological, and possibly historical perspectives to fully understand the integration of traditional practices into modern healthcare.


This approach may provide a wide public perspective, but they often lack the depth and rigor of academic research. For Palesa's research, which likely requires in-depth analysis and peer-reviewed information, relying exclusively on non-academic search engines could result in a lack of scholarly substance and potentially unreliable information.


This approach includes a variety of databases that cover different aspects of her topic. Utilising advanced search options across these platforms ensures that Palesa can tailor her results to retrieve the most relevant information from this interdisciplinary field

Answer 1

Option 2 is incorrect for the reasons outlined in the clarification: while using a single database can simplify the search process, it greatly limits the variety and depth of information available. For an interdisciplinary topic like traditional medicinal practices in KwaZulu-Natal, it is crucial to access resources from multiple fields such as medicine, anthropology, and regional studies.

By restricting herself to a single database, Palesa risks missing important insights and research findings that could be present in other databases. Different databases may offer unique perspectives, methodologies, and case studies pertinent to her research. A comprehensive understanding of how traditional medicine integrates with modern healthcare requires examining a variety of interdisciplinary sources, which can only be achieved by utilizing multiple databases and employing advanced search options.

Therefore, the diverse and comprehensive approach suggested in option 3 is essential for Palesa’s research, as it ensures access to a well-rounded collection of academically rigorous and relevant information across different disciplines.