Q. What are empirical sources or data and how can I find such data?

The word "empirical" refers to the collection of data using evidence that is collected through observation or experience or by using calibrated scientific instruments.

Using TCC Library's catalog or databases to find empirical sources, try these search tips (they even work in an online search engine!): 

Determine keywords for your topic. Examples include synonyms, shortenings, etc.

• "Battered Women's Syndrome" 
• BWS
• "intimate partner violence"
• "domestic violence"

Then, add a keyword or phrase searching (using quotation marks around words to create a phrase) to your search (so, use the above along with one of the below):

• experiment
• "primary research"
• "empirical study"
• "empirical research"

Use Boolean phrasing or an advanced search feature in the catalog or database.

• "empirical study" OR "empirical research" OR "primary research"

One of your final search strings might appear like this:

• (BWS OR "Battered Women's Syndrome") AND ("empirical study" OR "empirical research" OR "primary research")