When searching primarily for journal articles (some books are also indexed):
When searching primarily for books:
Whether you start in a specific database or with Google Scholar, the best research strategy is to use the iterative research process. This process is one where you perform multiple searches, refining your research criteria based on what you find. Each iteration will take you closer to your desired goal.
Consider installing and using Zotero, software that you can use to organize your citations and help with writing and citing.
Resources to help you evaluate information you find:
Use the CRAAP Test for evaluating resources
Evaluating Web Pages: Techniques to Apply & Questions to Ask
Steps and Guidelines for effectively evaluating websites. (From UC-Berkeley)
Consult the Qualitative Research Guide
The Guide provides:
Consult these resources to help you write your literature review.
Short 3-minute video explaining how to synthesize literature when writing a literature review
The Wheaton College Writing Center (located on the 1st floor of the library) has resources to help you with writing and formatting your paper.
Zotero is a reference manager that can not only hell you organize your research resource but it can also help you with formatting in-text citations and your bibliography.
Citation style guides
Spiritual Disciplines Handbook
One particular book that is a must read for multiple courses is Spiritual Disciplines Handbook: Practices That Transform Us (2015) by Adele Calhoun. We have it available through the following link. Please contact Steve Oberg if you need any help with accessing it.