Google Scholar is a useful website to use to find information when you are not finding the relevant information in the library databases. Google Scholar searches across full text, and is not limited to specific fields. However, to ensure access to legitimate articles it is good practice to link the SDSU LIbrary (or other academic library that you may have access to). To do this, first navigate to Google Scholar. Then click on the three lines on the top left of the screen: 
This will open "Settings". Then click "Library links". Then search for "San Diego State University" and/or any other library you may have access to. Make sure the boxes are checked, and then save.
When you search, it will show which articles are in your libraries. You can click on the "Find it at SDSU" or "Get it at..." link that will take you directly to the article in the library database.
When using Google Scholar, be aware of predatory journals. Predatory journals are fraudulent publications that prioritize financial gain over scholarly integrity. They exploit the "author-pays" open-access publishing model by charging authors to publish their work, but they do not provide the essential editorial and peer-review services that are hallmarks of legitimate academic publishing. Publishing in a predatory journal can have serious negative consequences for a researcher's career, as it can damage their reputation and make their work less discoverable and credible within the academic community.
The following includes some tips on how to recognize predatory journals so that you can avoid using these in your research:
Aggressive solicitation emails: Legitimate journals typically don't solicit authors, while predatory journals often send out spammy emails promising rapid publication for a fee.
Unrealistic claims about impact factors: Predatory journals may use fake or misleading metrics to appear more prestigious than they are. Be cautious of journals with inflated or unverifiable impact factors.
Poor website quality: Look for typos, grammatical errors, and unprofessional design on the journal's website. This can indicate a lack of attention to detail and quality control.
Missing or incomplete information: Essential information like editorial board details, peer review process, and contact information may be absent or vague on the website.
Guaranteed publication for a fee: Legitimate journals have a rigorous peer-review process, and acceptance is not guaranteed. Predatory journals may promise publication for a fee, regardless of the research quality.
Misleading journal title or branding: Predatory journals may use titles that sound similar to well-known journals or imply an affiliation with prestigious institutions that doesn't exist.
Fake or non-existent editorial board: Check the credentials of the editorial board members. Predatory journals may list fake scholars or individuals without their permission.
Unethical practices: Be wary of journals that lack clear policies on plagiarism, conflicts of interest, and other ethical considerations.
Unusually fast publication times: Legitimate peer review takes time. If a journal promises publication in an unrealistically short timeframe, it's likely predatory.
