You can set up alerts in order to be notified of new information related to your professional practice. This is an easy way to stay current in your field.
Database Alerts
Many databases offer alert services. Then, you can receive citations
that meet your criteria as the articles are indexed. Some free
databases have search alert services. For example: PubMed,
PTSDpubs, Green FILE, etc.
Journal Alerts
Many journals offer free article alerts based on the appearance of
your key words in the newly published article's title. Receive the
citations as each issue is published. Most journals do not require a
subscription in order to use this service. Visit the journal's website
in order to set up an alert.
Tables of Contents Alerts
Many journals offer free Tables of Contents services. Then, you can receive
the tables of contents as each issue is published. Most journals do not
require a subscription in order to use this service.
IngentaConnect (below link) and JournalTOCs (below link) offer tables of contents for hundreds
of journals. For other journals, visit the journal's website.
IngentaConnect: https://www.ingentaconnect.com/
JournalTOCs: https://www.journaltocs.ac.uk/index.php
Website Alerts
Google alerts on your topic: https://www.google.com/alerts?hl=en
Many organizations/associations that focus on your topic have alert
services based on topic/category. Usually, you do not need to be a
member in order to receive the alerts. Visit their websites for
information.
Many organizations and associations provide free electronic
newsletters/bulletins on the current happenings related to your topic.
Usually, you do not need to be a member of the
organization/association. Visit their websites for more information.
Monitor selected blogs, discussion groups/forums, and social networking
sites (for example: Facebook). Many offer alert services when new
content is added.
Using RSS to Keep Current
Use RSS to keep current in your field. For an explanation of RSS and
how to connect the service with your topic/category, see the following
research guide: https://libguides.wustl.edu/rss
Helpful Blog: Information Practice
"To help social service professionals throughout the world
conveniently maintain an awareness of news regarding the profession
and emerging scholarship." By Dr. Gary Holden, New York
University: Silver School of Social Work. https://ifp.nyu.edu
