Music History Research Methods Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key research terms, citation formats, research stages, source classifications, and library tools from the Chapter 1-7 lecture.

Topic

A generalized range or broad subject area of what is being researched.

Research Question

A specific query that defines a researcher's stance and explains why an audience should care about the research topic.

Learning Friction

The cognitive effort and challenge experienced when stretching oneself to synthesize complex information and develop an original perspective.

Chicago Style

The required citation style specified for the music history research papers in this course.

Explorer Stage

The initial phase of the research process focused on reading broadly to gather background information on a topic.

Focusing Stage

The research phase following background reading where a scholar identifies a specific entry point, stance, or research question.

Searching Stage

The intentional research stage where a scholar uses a refined research question to gather specific targeted sources and materials.

Concept Mapping

A visual brainstorming method used during the focusing stage to organize main concepts and clarify research angles.

Primary Source

Original, direct historical materials or firsthand records, such as diaries, original musical scores, or sound recordings.

Secondary Source

Works that evaluate, analyze, or discuss primary sources, such as biographies, critical analyses, and scholarly books or articles.

Tertiary Source

Compilations or reference tools that synthesize information from primary and secondary materials, such as encyclopedias.

Oxford Music Online

A research database tool used to locate background reference entries and encyclopedia articles on music history topics.

JSTOR

A digital library database used by students to locate secondary scholarly articles and literature for research.

20-Minute Rule

The guideline to contact a librarian via chat, email, phone, or appointment if struggling to find research materials for more than 20 minutes.