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Steps in the Research Process (Big Six)
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This summary is based on a model for information skills created by Michael Eisenberg and Robert Berkowitz called Big6.
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| 1. |
Defining the problem and asking the questions that will produce the needed information |
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What is the problem or topic? Try looking at the subject directory in Proquest Platinum or SAS Journals by subject.
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What information do I need?
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What do I already know about the topic?
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What additional information do I need?
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| 2. |
Strategic Information Plan |
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Where can I find the needed information (Books, SAS Databases, e-Reference, Google Scholar, Reference Room, etc.)?
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What type of sources would help me to best research this topic? Are these sources available to me?
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Should I ask a librarian to help me choose/find my sources?
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| 3. |
Selection and Evaluation of Sources |
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How can I search all of these sources effectively?
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What am I finding? What words am I using to search the SAS databases? Are there other keywords or subject headings that might make my search more effective?
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Am I on the right track? Are the resources I am using answering my questions, or are they just rehashing what I already know? Do I need to select additional resources? Should I ask a librarian for help?
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Are my sources current, relevant, scholarly, accurate and credible?
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If asked, can I defend my selection of internet resources?
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Have I cited all my sources accurately? What citation style (MLA or APA) does my teacher prefer?
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| 4. |
Organizing the Collected Information |
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Re-evaluate the information. Is it relevant and does this answer all needed questions pertaining to the project?
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How can I organize the information I have collected? Do I need to make an outline or take notes?
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Finally, have I answered all the questions related to my project with quality information?
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| 5. |
Presenting and Communicating Your Research |
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Who is your audience and what is the format that you will use to communicate your research (essay? formal paper? video production?)?
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Do I have everything I need to present this project?
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Is the research really ready to be presented (proofread, edited, spellchecked, properly cited)?
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Is this your best work? Did you cover all parts of your topic? Have you meet your teacher's expectations?
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Did you utilize all resources available to you via the library (SAS Databases, Reference Books, Audio Visual Resources, Primary Sources, Interviews, Yearbooks, Archives, Indexes ...)? Did your strategy for information gathering work for you or could it have been improved? How?
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Please contact us with any questions.
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The "Big6™" is copyright © (1987) Michael B. Eisenberg and Robert E. Berkowitz. For more information, visit: www.big6.com |
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