Tutorials - Library Tutorials - Research Guides at University of Tennessee Knoxville

Tutorials - Library Tutorials - Research Guides at University of Tennessee Knoxville
Library Tutorials: Tutorials
University Libraries tutorials about using library resources, evaluating information, plagiarism, and more. All tutorials and links on this guide open in a new tab / window.
Types of tutorials:
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Applied Learning
Interactive Guide
Text-Based Guide
Video-Based Guide
Tutorial Series
Additional Information
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Featured Resources
Featured Resources
Game Show Gauntlet: Database Edition
In this interactive tutorial, learn the basics of academic databases through a series of game show–themed challenges that become more difficult as you progress. Each round builds your understanding of how to navigate and use databases effectively.
Cite It Right!
This interactive tutorial guides learners through the process of citing scholarly articles for academic research. Learners can choose to practice using APA, Chicago, or MLA citation styles, with step-by-step guidance tailored to each format. Learners will discover how to identify the necessary citation elements, properly format references, and avoid common citation errors.
Jargon Blaster
In this interactive module, the user learns about library jargon by playing as the University's beloved mascot, Smokey. In the game, a villain has pixelated Knoxville's landmarks, and Smokey needs to work his way through an 8-bit version of the city, answering questions about library jargon to save the day.
Using the University Libraries: A Volunteer Experience
This interactive,
choose-your-own-adventure
tutorial demonstrates the many ways users can navigate the University Libraries' resources and services. Throughout the tutorial, users are presented with options that guide their journey. The user can choose to (virtually) visit a specific branch library, online options, or a combination of both. The choices that are made will determine what library services or resources the user interacts with.
Game Show Gauntlet: Database Edition
In this interactive tutorial, learn the basics of academic databases through a series of game show–themed challenges that become more difficult as you progress. Each round builds your understanding of how to navigate and use databases effectively.
Cite It Right!
This interactive tutorial guides learners through the process of citing scholarly articles for academic research. Learners can choose to practice using APA, Chicago, or MLA citation styles, with step-by-step guidance tailored to each format. Learners will discover how to identify the necessary citation elements, properly format references, and avoid common citation errors.
Jargon Blaster
In this interactive module, the user learns about library jargon by playing as the University's beloved mascot, Smokey. In the game, a villain has pixelated Knoxville's landmarks, and Smokey needs to work his way through an 8-bit version of the city, answering questions about library jargon to save the day.
Using the University Libraries: A Volunteer Experience
This interactive,
choose-your-own-adventure
tutorial demonstrates the many ways users can navigate the University Libraries' resources and services. Throughout the tutorial, users are presented with options that guide their journey. The user can choose to (virtually) visit a specific branch library, online options, or a combination of both. The choices that are made will determine what library services or resources the user interacts with.
Research Basics
Tutorials in this category focus on learning and enhancing research skills.
These tutorials are listed based on our proposed research process. An
Alphanumeric version of the Research Database list
is also available.
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Using Generative AI for Research
This course will detail how students, faculty, and staff can use generative AI (such as ChatGPT) effectively to conduct research and write scholarly papers.
Applied Learning
• Quiz questions are included throughout the module.
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Time varies depending on need. (Approximately 30 minutes to complete entire course.)
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works on all major devices.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Explain what generative AI platforms are and how they work
Engage with generative AI platforms thoughtfully, ethically, and effectively
Use generative AI to support their research process
Mind Map
This video walks users through creating a basic mind map to find a topic for an assignment.
Video-Based Guide
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes less than 2 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works on all major devices.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.

Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Define a mind map, explaining its purpose and usefulness as a visual tool for organizing and representing information.
Create a basic mind map, including the use of central topics, branches, and keywords to convey relationships and hierarchy within the information.
The Information Cycle
This video looks at the timeline of information and how this can affect your ability to find scholarly sources.
Video-Based Guide
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 5 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works on all major devices.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.

Learning Objectives
Users will explore how different publication formats (e.g., articles, books, websites) are affected by the information cycle, considering factors such as immediacy, depth, and editorial processes.
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Analyze the stages of the information cycle, including creation, dissemination, and transformation of information, to understand how information evolves over time.
Assess how the information cycle influences the availability, relevance, and reliability of sources, guiding them in making informed decisions about source selection for research.
Apply knowledge of the information cycle to analyze real-world examples, enhancing their practical understanding of how information evolves and impacts different fields of study.
General Search Tips and Strategies
This guide provides tips and strategies for the research process. It includes keyboard shortcuts, search tips, and search strategies.
Text-Based Guide
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Time varies depending on need.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works on all major devices.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Identify and apply a diverse range of techniques essential for effective academic research.
Demonstrate an understanding of various academic research strategies.
Display an awareness of and proficiently utilize keyboard shortcuts that enhance efficiency during the research process, improving navigation, document handling, and overall productivity.
Integrate identified research techniques seamlessly into their workflow, optimizing their ability to gather, analyze, and synthesize information for academic projects.
Finding Books and More in One Search
This interactive guide walks you through using the University Libraries discovery tool, One Search, to find books, articles, and other materials.
Interactive Guide
• There is a 6 question quiz at the end of the guide.
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 5-10 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
Users will practice and apply searching strategies within One Search to refine results and find specific types of resources, such as books and scholarly articles.
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Proficiently utilize One Search to conduct searches and locate a variety of resources, including books and electronic materials, on the University Libraries website.
Demonstrate the ability to create an account on the University Libraries website and display familiarity with account management features to enhance their resource access experience.
Display understanding of how to access both physical resources (e.g., books, journals) and electronic resources available through the University Libraries and on the University Libraries website.
Game Show Gauntlet: Database Edition
In this interactive tutorial, learn the basics of academic databases through a series of game show–themed challenges that become more difficult as you progress. Each round builds your understanding of how to navigate and use databases effectively.
Applied Learning
• Quiz questions are included throughout the module.
• PDF Completion Report available.
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 30-45 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
By completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Understand the purpose and function of academic databases by comparing them to familiar tools to build a foundation for effective database usage.
Define and recognize essential database terms, including
peer-reviewed
abstract
keywords
, and
filters
Locate and identify key database elements within a simulated database environment.
Apply newly learned terms to enhance understanding of their practical roles in academic research.
Evaluate the credibility and relevance of sources by applying criteria for academic reliability, relevance, and authority.
Explore advanced database features, including Boolean operators, subject headings, and citations tools, to refine search strategies and improve research efficiency.
Finding Articles: Using
Academic Search Complete
This guide walks you through accessing academic databases on the University Libraries' website. It also provides strategies for finding scholarly articles using the database
Academic Search Complete
Interactive Guide
• There is a 6 question quiz at the end of the guide.
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 5-10 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
Users will practice and apply effective searching strategies within academic databases to retrieve scholarly articles and other relevant materials.
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully navigate the Articles and Databases page on the University Libraries website to locate a variety of academic resources.
Proficiently use the basic features of an academic database to conduct searches, use filters, and locate relevant articles.
Primary Versus Secondary Sources
This interactive module provides scenarios and explanations about how to differentiate between primary and secondary sources.
Applied Learning
• Quiz questions are included throughout the module.
• Certificate of Completion available.
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 10-30 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Define primary sources, recognizing them as firsthand, original, or raw materials that provide direct evidence or insight into a particular topic, event, or time period.
Define secondary sources, identifying them as interpretations, analyses, or summaries of primary sources created by individuals not directly involved in the events or research.
Differentiate between primary and secondary sources based on given circumstances, considering factors such as authorship, proximity to the event, and purpose.
Articulate the key differences between primary and secondary sources, highlighting the unique characteristics, strengths, and limitations of each in the context of academic research.
Evaluating Sources
This tutorial has three sections that explore what makes a source reliable and how we know we can trust a source. Users can expect to grow critical thinking skills. You'll evaluate information and determine if it's trustworthy through various strategies.
Applied Learning
• Quiz questions are included throughout the module.
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 15-20 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works on all major devices.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Define the term "reliable" in the context of evaluating information sources.
Comprehend how the context of information, including its source and publication, can influence its reliability.
Apply lateral reading techniques to gather additional information about an information source
Critically assess the reliability, bias, and authority of information sources.
Citing Your Sources and Creative Works
This interactive module provides scenarios and explanations about how to cite sources.
Applied Learning
• Quiz questions are included throughout the module.
• Certificate of Completion available.
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 10-30 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Articulate the purpose of citations and their significance in academic and creative works.
Employ effective strategies to avoid plagiarism and responsibly integrate sources into their work.
Distinguish between plagiarism and copyright infringement, recognizing the distinct ethical and legal considerations associated with each.
Demonstrate awareness of available research assistance services at the University Libraries, including reference materials, expert guidance, and online resources.
Cite It Right!
This interactive tutorial guides learners through the process of citing scholarly articles for academic research. Learners can choose to practice using APA, Chicago, or MLA citation styles, with step-by-step guidance tailored to each format. Learners will discover how to identify the necessary citation elements, properly format references, and avoid common citation errors.
Applied Learning
• Quiz questions are included throughout the module.
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 30-90 minutes. (Approximately 30 minutes per tutorial.)
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will:
Understand the significance of citations in the research process, articulating their role in acknowledging sources, providing credibility to arguments, and fostering academic integrity.
Be able to discern and extract key information from scholarly journal articles necessary for constructing accurate citations.
Recognize the distinctions between in-text citations, footnotes/endnotes, and bibliographic/reference entries, comprehending how citation formats may vary across these components.
Demonstrate proficiency in crafting citations for scholarly journal articles using appropriate citation styles (APA, MLA, or Chicago), tailored to the requirements of their academic discipline or specific assignment.
Copyright Basics
This lesson teaches learners about copyright basics using definitions, applications, and scenarios. Copyright is an important part of understanding how books, articles, art, movies, and other content can be used and cited.
Applied Learning
• Quiz questions are included throughout the module.
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 15-20 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works on all major devices.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will:
Understand more about copyright basics through definitions, applications, and scenarios.
Alphanumeric List
Click on the collapsible panel to open and close it.
Alphanumeric Research Basics List
Cite It Right!
Opens in a new window.
Citing Your Sources and Creative Works
Opens in a new window.
Copyright Basics
Opens in a new window.
Evaluating Sources
Opens in a new window.
Finding Articles: Using
Academic Search Complete
Opens in a new window.
Finding Books and More in One Search
Opens in a new window.
Game Show Gauntlet: Database Edition
Opens in a new window.
General Search Tips and Strategies
Opens in a new window.
The Information Cycle
Opens in a new window.
Mind Map
Opens in a new window.
Primary Versus Secondary Sources
Opens in a new window.
Using Generative AI for Research
Opens in a new window.
Databases & Research Tools
Tutorials in this category will discuss accessing and using databases as well as other tools and apps that support the research process.
Skip to:
CINAHL
(Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature)
This video series guides users through using the database CINAHL, which is a comprehensive database for the literature of nursing and provides extensive coverage of allied health.
Note:
Please be advised that due an update of the UTK library website and user interface in EBSCOhost (which hosts CINAHL), the information in these tutorials may be slightly outdated. Much of the content will remain the same; however, some items may be located in different locations. We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding.
Video-Based Guide
Tutorial Series
Topics covered:
Introduction & Access
Keyword Searching
Subject Headings
Limiting Your Search
Managing Citations
Finding Full Text Articles
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 5-30 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works on all major devices.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.

Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Proficiently execute a basic search in the CINAHL database, employing appropriate keywords and filters.
Navigate the process of accessing full-text articles in the CINAHL database using their UTK credentials.
Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing citation management features within the CINAHL database.
Connecting Google Scholar and the University Libraries
This video will walk you through connecting your University Libraries account and Google Scholar.
Video-Based Guide
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes less than 5 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works on all major devices.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.

Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully connect Google Scholar to their University Libraries account.
Comprehend the advantages of connecting Google Scholar to their University Libraries account.
Dimensions
This series of guides walks users through using the database Dimensions, which is a linked research data resource that tracks information on publications and their citations and mentions, datasets, research funding, patents, clinical trials, and policy documents.
Text-based Guide
Tutorial Series
Topics covered:
Accessing Dimensions
Creating an Account
Basic Navigation
Document Details & Tools
Creating Alerts
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Varied depending on need. Takes 5-50 minutes to complete the entire series. (Approximately 5-15 minutes per tutorial.)
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully access Dimensions through the University Libraries website.
Create a free Dimensions account.
Demonstrate proficiency in navigating the Dimensions application, including the publication record page and available tools.
Create and manage saved searches and alerts.
EndNote Basics
This series of guides provides tips and strategies for using the citation management software EndNote.
Text-based Guide
Tutorial Series
Topics covered:
Windows Installation and Mac Tips
Exporting References from a Database into EndNote
Importing PDFs into EndNote
Typing in a Reference
Managing an EndNote Library
Getting an Output Style into EndNote
Backing Up and Synching an EndNote Library
Cite While You Write
Find Full Text
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 10-90 minutes. (Approximately 10 minutes per tutorial.)
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully install EndNote on different operating systems, including Windows and macOS.
Proficiently be able to perform basic functions in EndNote, including adding references to their library and managing the references using groups, searching, and sorting.
Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing advanced features, such as Cite While You Write, locating and integrating full-text documents, and employing tagging functionality.
ERIC
(Educational Resources Information Center)
This video series guides users through using the database ERIC, which is a database for journal articles and documents in all areas of education.
Note:
Please be advised that due an update of the UTK library website and user interface in EBSCOhost (which hosts ERIC), the information in these tutorials may be slightly outdated. Much of the content will remain the same; however, some items may be located in different locations. We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding.
Video-Based Guide
Tutorial Series
Topics covered:
Introduction / Location
EBSCO Account
Thesaurus
Types of Searches
Search Tips
Filters
Search Examples
Viewing, Citing, and Saving Results
Finding Full Text Articles
Getting Help
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 5-40 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works on all major devices.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.

Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully create an EBSCO account, understanding the benefits and features associated with account registration.
Proficiently perform a basic search in the ERIC database, employing effective keywords and utilizing advanced search options if needed.
Navigate the process of accessing full-text articles in the ERIC database using their UTK credentials.
Effectively utilize ERIC's Thesaurus to identify and apply appropriate subject terms for refining search queries.
Utilize features within ERIC to save and organize selected articles for future reference, including creating folders and exporting citation information.
JSTOR
This video series guides users through using the database JSTOR, which includes selected scholarly journals and articles in humanities, social sciences, and sciences.
Note:
Please be advised that due an update of the UTK library website and user interface in JSTOR, the information in these tutorials may be outdated. Much of the content will remain the same; however, some items may be located in different locations. We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding.
Video-Based Guide
Tutorial Series
Topics covered:
Introduction / Location
JSTOR Account
Types of Searches
Search Tips & Filters
Example Searches
Viewing, Saving, and Citing Results
Help with JSTOR & Other Resources
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 5-30 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works on all major devices.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.

Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully create a JSTOR account, understanding the benefits and additional features available through account registration.
Proficiently perform a basic search in the JSTOR database, utilizing effective search strategies and understanding Boolean operators if applicable.
Effectively save selected articles, creating and managing collections or folders within JSTOR for future reference.
LibKey Nomad
This video will walk you through connecting LibKey Nomad to your UT Library account, which will provide faster access to articles that use the software.
Video-Based Guide
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes less than 5 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works on all major devices.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.

Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully access the LibKey Nomad tool and connect it to their University Libraries account.
Recognize resources that utilize LibKey Nomad for accessing full-text articles.
Successfully retrieve the full-text version of an article using LibKey Nomad.
PowerNotes
This video guides users through downloading and using the PowerNotes extension, which is an academic research tool.
Video-Based Guide
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes less than 10 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully install PowerNotes on Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.
Demonstrate the ability to create a new project within the PowerNotes platform
Display proficiency in exporting resources, including citations and notes, from PowerNotes.
PsycINFO
This interactive series of guides walks users through using the database PsycINFO, which is a database for journal articles, books, and dissertations in all areas of psychology.
Interactive Guide
Tutorial Series
Topics covered:
Introduction
MyAccount
Search Tips
Results
Thesaurus
Tips for Advanced Searching
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Time varies depending on need.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully create a PsycINFO account, understanding the advantages and additional features associated with account registration.
Proficiently perform a basic search, utilizing appropriate keywords and filters, and an advanced search, including the use of Boolean operators, proximity operators, and other advanced search options to refine results.
Effectively utilize the PsycINFO Thesaurus to identify and apply relevant subject terms for refining search queries.
PubMed
This interactive series of guides walks users through using the database PubMed
, which is a database for biomedicine.
Interactive Guide
Tutorial Series
Topics covered:
Introduction to PubMed
My NCBI Account
Keyword Searching
Limiting Your Search
Single Citation Searching
MeSH Definition
MeSH Searching
Managing Citations
Finding Full Text Articles
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Time varies depending on need.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully create an NCBI account, understanding the benefits and additional features associated with account registration.
Proficiently perform a basic search, utilizing appropriate keywords and filters, and an advanced search, including the use of Boolean operators and other advanced search options to refine results.
navigate the process of locating and accessing full-text articles in PubMed using their UTK credentials.
Effectively perform Single Citation Searching in PubMed, locating specific articles using citation details such as author names, titles, or publication years.
Proficiently utilize Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) for searching in PubMed, enhancing the precision and relevance of search queries.
Utilize features within PubMed to save and organize selected articles, including creating bibliographies and managing citation collections.
Scopus
This interactive series of guides walks users through using the database Scopus, which is a multidisciplinary database covering peer-reviewed literature in science, engineering, medicine, and social sciences (including some arts & humanities).
Interactive Guide
Tutorial Series
Topics covered:
Introduction
Scopus Account
Basic Searching
Advanced Searching
Refining Results
Article Overview
Finding Full Text
Additional Documents
Expanding Searches
Authors & Affiliations
Source Search
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Time varies depending on need.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully create a Scopus account, understanding the advantages and additional features associated with account registration.
Proficiently perform a basic search, utilizing appropriate keywords and filters, and an advanced search, including the use of Boolean operators and other advanced search options to refine results.
Navigate the process of locating and accessing full-text articles in Scopus using their UTK credentials.
Understand and apply features in Scopus that assist in broadening search results, including the use of Authors and Affiliations searches and Source searches.
Visible Body
This video series guides users through using the courseware Visible Body, which is a comprehensive 3D atlas of the human body.
Video-Based Guide
Tutorial Series
Topics covered: (each topic is a separate Visible Body app)
Human Anatomy Atlas
Anatomy and Physiology
Muscle Premium
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes ~30 minutes to complete the entire series.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully access the Visible Body software, understanding the login process and interface navigation across each app.
Demonstrate the ability to explore various anatomical views within Visible Body, including regional views, systems views, and cross-sectional views.
Effectively use interactive tools provided in Visible Body, such as zoom, rotate, and pan, to examine anatomical structures in detail.
Explore and understand the functional systems available in Visible Body.
Web of Science
This interactive series of guides walks users through using the database Web of Science, which is a multidisciplinary index covering journal articles and conference proceedings in sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
Interactive Guide
Tutorial Series
Topics covered:
Introduction
Account Creation
Types of Searches
Tips for Searching
Search Results
Cited Reference Search
Other Resources
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 5-60 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully create a Web of Science account, understanding the benefits and additional features associated with account registration.
Proficiently perform a basic search, utilizing appropriate keywords and filters, and an advanced search, including the use of Boolean operators and other advanced search options to refine results.
Effectively conduct cited reference searches in Web of Science, identifying and exploring articles that have cited a particular reference.
WorldCat
This video series guides users through using the database WorldCat, which is a record of materials cataloged in libraries around the world.
Video-Based Guide
Tutorial Series
Topics covered:
Introduction & Access
Interface
Example Search
Dissertations & Theses
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 5-15 minutes.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works on all major devices.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.

Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Successfully navigate the WorldCat interface, understanding the layout, search options, and menu features.
Proficiently perform searches in WorldCat, utilizing effective keywords and filters to locate a variety of materials.
Locate and access dissertations and theses within WorldCat, understanding the unique features and scope of the Dissertations & Theses database.
About the University Libraries
Tutorials in this category contain information specific to the University Libraries.
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Jargon Blaster
In this interactive module, the user learns about library jargon by playing as the University's beloved mascot, Smokey. In the game, a villain has pixelated Knoxville's landmarks, and Smokey needs to work his way through an 8-bit version of the city, answering questions about library jargon to save the day. (A shorter,
question-only version of Jargon Blaster
Opens in a new window.
is also available.)
Applied Learning
• Quiz questions are included throughout the module.
• PDF Completion Report available.
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Takes 30-45 minutes.
(Question-Only Version takes approximately 30 minutes.)
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
* A question only version of this tutorial is also available. This version can be accessed at
Opens in a new window.
Learning Objectives
By completing this tutorial, users will be able to:
Identify and locate library services that offer assistance.
Recognize and use common library terminology when conducting research.
Differentiate between similar library concepts when researching.
Libby Audiobooks & EBooks
This guide provides step-by-step instructions for accessing and using the Libby app with the Tenn-Share Academic Collection though the University Libraries at UTK. It walks users through searching for and borrowing titles, reading or listening within the app, and includes helpful tips and FAQs.
Text-Based Guide
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Time varies depending on need.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works on all major devices.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After using this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Access the Libby app and connect it to the Tenn-Share Academic Collection through the University Libraries.
Search for, borrow, and manage eBooks and audiobooks within the Libby app.
Navigate Libby’s reading and listening features.
Library Express
This tutorial provides step-by-step instructions for UTK faculty, staff, and students to use the University Libraries' Library Express service. This service allows users to have materials help for pickup or digitally scanned if the item
is available in the libraries’ collections
*This walk through is part of a series that provides users with information about request items from the University Libraries. The other tutorial, Resource Sharing, provides information about requesting items that are not owned by the libraries.
Text-Based Guide (with recommended interactivity)
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Time varies depending on need.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Access the Library Express service on the University Libraries' website.
Demonstrate an understanding of holding materials for pickup at the University Libraries and requesting PDF scans of materials.
Resource Sharing
This tutorial provides step-by-step instructions for UTK faculty, staff, and students to use the University Libraries' Resource Sharing service. This service helps users access materials
not available in the libraries’ collections
*This walk through is part of a series that provides users with information about request items from the University Libraries. The other tutorial, Library Express, provides information about requesting items that are owned by the libraries.
Text-Based Guide (with recommended interactivity)
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Time varies depending on need.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Access the Resource Sharing service on the University Libraries' website.
Demonstrate an understanding of requesting articles, books, and more using ILLiad.
Using the University Libraries:
A Volunteer Experience
This interactive,
choose-your-own-adventure
tutorial demonstrates the many ways users can navigate the University Libraries' resources and services. Throughout the tutorial, users are presented with options that guide their journey. The user can choose to (virtually) visit a specific branch library, online options, or a combination of both. The choices that are made will determine what library services or resources the user interacts with.
Interactive Guide
Tutorial Information
Tutorial completion time.
Time varies depending on choices made.
Which device types will tutorial work on?
Works best on desktop / laptop or tablet.
Which browsers will tutorial work on?
Works on all major browsers.
Learning Objectives
After completing this tutorial, learners will be able to:
Navigate the physical layout of the University Libraries and locate key areas.
Use the University Libraries' resources to efficiently search for books, journals, and other scholarly materials related to their research topics.
Identify and access the various support services offered by the library, including research assistance, resource sharing services, and contacting a librarian.
Connect Socially. Engage Anywhere.
Share in the UT Libraries experience - and stay up to date with current news and events - all on social media.
Additional Information
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for providing valuable assistance in refining and structuring the learning objectives for several tutorials on this site.
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Applied Learning
These tutorials walk users through a
concept
, such as information literacy. Users will answer questions based on the information along the way. They may have a variety of formats within them - including text, videos, animations, etc.
Interactive Guide
These tutorials walk users through a
process
, such as using an app, database, or research tool. Users are asked to complete requested actions along the way. These guides may have a variety of formats within them - including text, videos, and questions.
Text-Based Guide
These tutorials will be text-based, such as PDFs or web sites.
Video-Based Guide
These tutorials are video-based. They may contain a series of videos or just one.
Tutorial Series
Tutorials marked as "Tutorial Series" are broken into multiple parts.
Return to Top
Research Basics
Using Generative AI for Research
This course will detail how students, faculty, and staff can use generative AI (such as ChatGPT) effectively to conduct research and write scholarly papers.
Mind Map
This video walks users through creating a basic mind map to find a topic for an assignment.
The Information Cycle
This video looks at the timeline of information and how this can affect your ability to find scholarly sources.
General Search Tips and Strategies
This guide provides tips and strategies for the research process. It includes keyboard shortcuts, search tips, and search strategies.
Finding Books and More in One Search
This interactive guide walks you through using the University Libraries discovery tool, One Search, to find books, articles, and other materials.
This tutorial works best on a desktop/laptop or tablet.
Game Show Gauntlet: Database Edition
In this interactive tutorial, learn the basics of academic databases through a series of game show–themed challenges that become more difficult as you progress. Each round builds your understanding of how to navigate and use databases effectively.
This tutorial works best on a desktop/laptop or tablet.
Finding Articles: Using
Academic Search Complete
This guide walks you through accessing academic databases on the University Libraries' website. It also provides strategies for finding scholarly articles using the database
Academic Search Complete
This tutorial works best on a desktop/laptop or tablet.
Primary Versus Secondary Sources
This interactive module provides scenarios and explanations about how to differentiate between primary and secondary sources.
This tutorial works best on a desktop/laptop or tablet.
Evaluating Sources
This tutorial has three sections that explore what makes a source reliable and how we know we can trust a source. Users can expect to grow critical thinking skills. You'll evaluate information and determine if it's trustworthy through various strategies.
Citing Your Sources and Creative Works
This interactive module provides scenarios and explanations about how to cite sources.
This tutorial works best on a desktop/laptop or tablet.
Cite It Right!
This interactive tutorial guides learners through the process of citing scholarly articles for academic research. Learners can choose to practice using APA, Chicago, or MLA citation styles, with step-by-step guidance tailored to each format. Learners will discover how to identify the necessary citation elements, properly format references, and avoid common citation errors.
This tutorial works best on a desktop/laptop or tablet.
Copyright Basics
This lesson teaches learners about copyright basics using definitions, applications, and scenarios. Copyright is an important part of understanding how books, articles, art, movies, and other content can be used and cited.
Databases & Research Tools
CINAHL
(Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature)
This video series guides users through using the database CINAHL, which is a comprehensive database for the literature of nursing and provides extensive coverage of allied health.
Connecting Google Scholar and the University Libraries
This video will walk you through connecting your University Libraries account and Google Scholar.
Dimensions
This series of guides walks users through using the database Dimensions, which is a linked research data resource that tracks information on publications and their citations and mentions, datasets, research funding, patents, clinical trials, and policy documents.
EndNote Basics
This series of guides provides tips and strategies for using the citation management software EndNote.
ERIC
This video series guides users through using the database ERIC, which is a database for journal articles and documents in all areas of education.
JSTOR
This video series guides users through using the database JSTOR, which includes selected scholarly journals and articles in humanities, social sciences, and sciences.
LibKey Nomad
This video will walk you through connecting LibKey Nomad to your UT Library account, which will provide faster access to articles that use the software.
PowerNotes
This video guides users through downloading and using the PowerNotes extension, which is an academic research tool.
This tutorial works best on a desktop/laptop or tablet.
PsycINFO
This interactive series of guides walks users through using the database PsycINFO, which is a database for journal articles, books, and dissertations in all areas of psychology.
This tutorial works best on a desktop/laptop or tablet.
PubMed
This interactive series of guides walks users through using the database PubMed, which is a database for biomedicine.
This tutorial works best on a desktop/laptop or tablet.
Scopus
This interactive series of guides walks users through using the database Scopus, which is a multidisciplinary database covering peer-reviewed literature in science, engineering, medicine, and social sciences (including some arts & humanities).
This tutorial works best on a desktop/laptop or tablet.
Visible Body
This video series guides users through using the courseware Visible Body, which is a comprehensive 3D atlas of the human body.
Web of Science
This interactive series of guides walks users through using the database Web of Science, which is a multidisciplinary index covering journal articles and conference proceedings in sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
This tutorial works best on a desktop/laptop or tablet.
WorldCat
This video series guides users through using the database WorldCat, which is a record of materials cataloged in libraries around the world.
About the University Libraries
Jargon Blaster
In this interactive module, the user learns about library jargon by playing as the University's beloved mascot, Smokey. In the game, a villain has pixelated Knoxville's landmarks, and Smokey needs to work his way through an 8-bit version of the city, answering questions about library jargon to save the day. (A shorter,
question-only version of Jargon Blaster
is also available.)
Tutorial works best on desktop/laptop or tablet.
Libby Audiobooks & EBooks
This guide provides step-by-step instructions for accessing and using the Libby app with the Tenn-Share Academic Collection though the University Libraries at UTK. It walks users through searching for and borrowing titles, reading or listening within the app, and includes helpful tips and FAQs.
Library Express
This tutorial provides step-by-step instructions for UTK faculty, staff, and students to use the University Libraries' Library Express service. This service allows users to have materials help for pickup or digitally scanned if the item
is available in the libraries’ collections
*This walk through is part of a series that provides users with information about request items from the University Libraries. The other tutorial, Resource Sharing, provides information about requesting items that are not owned by the libraries.
Resource Sharing
This tutorial provides step-by-step instructions for UTK faculty, staff, and students to use the University Libraries' Resource Sharing service. This service helps users access materials
not available in the libraries’ collections
*This walk through is part of a series that provides users with information about request items from the University Libraries. The other tutorial, Library Express, provides information about requesting items that are owned by the libraries.
Using the University Libraries: A Volunteer Experience
This interactive,
choose-your-own-adventure
tutorial demonstrates the many ways users can navigate the University Libraries' resources and services. Throughout the tutorial, users are presented with options that guide their journey. The user can choose to (virtually) visit a specific branch library, online options, or a combination of both. The choices that are made will determine what library services or resources the user interacts with.
Tutorial works best on desktop/laptop or tablet.
Research Basics
Cite It Right!
Citing Your Sources and Creative Works
Copyright Basics
Evaluating Sources
Finding Articles
Finding Books and More
Game Show Gauntlet: Database Edition
General Search Tips and Strategies
The Information Cycle
Mind Map
Primary Versus Secondary Sources
Using Generative AI in Research
Databases and Research Tools
CINAHL
Connecting Google Scholar and the University Libraries
Dimensions
EndNote Basics
ERIC
JSTOR
LibKey Nomad
PowerNotes
PsycINFO
PubMed
Scopus
Visible Body
Web of Science
WorldCat
About the University Libraries
Jargon Blaster
Jargon Blaster (Question Only Version)
Libby Audiobooks & EBooks
Library Express
Resource Sharing
Using the University Libraries: A Volunteer Experience
Apr 10, 2026 8:33 AM
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