Exploring Undergraduate Students’ Use of Google Scholar in the Research Process

Abstract

The present study tries to investigate the use of Google Scholar in the research process. Thus, it has been hypothesized that Google scholar could facilitate the process of research. In order to test this hypothesis, the mixed method approach was used, through the administration of questionnaire and interview .The sample of the present investigation consists of seventy one (71) second year Master students at the department of English, 8 Mai 1945 University- Guelma. The analysis and interpretation of the data demonstrated that students have positive attitudes toward using online search engines to conduct research. Nevertheless, the findings revealed that some students do not use online resources in their study, even if they have recognized the value of Google Scholar. Finally, it is strongly urged to reevaluate the place of online search engines in the academic world and learn the proper ways to use them when conducting a research.