Distinguishing Scholarly from Non-Scholarly Periodicals
Why Use Periodicals?
- A periodical is often the best source for information on new or current topics.
- The subject may be too narrow for publication in a book.
- Old periodicals contain historical information.
How Can Scholarly Journals Be Distinguished From Non-Scholarly Journals?
- What is the main purpose of the journal? If the journal reports on research or experimentation, it is considered a scholarly publication. If the journal's primary focus is to entertain, to sell a product, or to promote a po int of view, it is considered non-scholarly.
- Are sources cited in footnotes or bibliographies? If the answer is yes, may be a scholarly journal since they always cite their sources.
- How does it look? Scholarly publications usually have a serious appearance, often supplemented by graphs and charts. Non-scholarly journals come in many different formats; they often have many illustrations, including photographs.
- Who wrote the article? Scholarly publications are written by scholars or researchers in the field. Non-scholarly articles may be written by a member of the journal staff, a scholar or researcher, or a free lance writer.
- What is the language of the journal? Does the journal employ a specialized vocabulary? Does it assume the reader has a thorough awareness of the history and issues of the journal subject? Non-scholarly periodicals such as Newsweek appeal to the "layperson." Language is simple and conversational and unknown terms are usually defined.
- Scholarly periodicals:
- Science
- Journal of Interdisciplinary History
- Non-scholarly periodicals:
- Time
- Reader's Digest
- Sports Illustrated
- U.S. News and World Report
- Scholarly periodicals:
Where are the Periodicals Located?
- Periodicals are located on the second floor of the Bertrand Library. They are shelved in alphabetical order by title. Current issues are located at the front of the building.
