This image of an Advanced Search in the eHRAF World Cultures database shows a combination of OCM subjects and keywords that can be used to find ethnographic texts with information on traditional heating methods for houses and buildings.
Steps in Using OCM subjects and keywords in an eHRAF Advanced Search
Step 1. Log on to eHRAF World Cultures (if prompted for authentication, email hraf@yale.edu for a temporary log-in). Click the Advanced Search tab.
Step 2. Find OCM subject(s) for heating methods
Click Add Subjects –use the A-Z Index, Major Subjects or OCM Code. Click on the 3- or 4 digit number to open the subject description (this helps in deciding whether a subject “matches” ones topic). To add a subject to the menu click the box to the left of the subject name and then Add Subject.
Hint! Topics Covered at the HRAF’s home page shows the entire list of OCM subject that are indexed and searchable in eHRAF. Write down the 3- and 4 digit numbers and then use the OCM Code tab to find the numbers associated with the subjects.
Step 3. Click + in lower right side to add another set of search terms.
Step 4. Find OCM subject(s) for buildings, houses, structures
follow instructions in step 2.
Step 5. Refine a search by using truncated keywords (e.g. heat* for heat, heating, heater, heats, etc.).
Caution! An OCM subject with keywords can refine, and if several words are used, can even enhance a search. However, there is a downside to searching with keywords as it also limits the power of an OCM subject search. An OCM subject search without keywords finds passages of texts that are about the topic (e.g. heating), but use different words to describe and refer to it.
Step 6. Set Boolean operators!
AND to narrow the search
OR to expand the search
(see green and red circle in image above)
Step 7. Click Search to search across cultures, regions, and even subsistence types.
Contact hraf@yale.edu for a current log-in. Briefly describe your research topic so we can provide helpful tips.
More Search Methods Posts:
Related eHRAF User Guide Links