Big6 Approach

1. Task Definition
A. Define the problem
B. Identify the information requirements of the problems

2. Information Seeking Strategies
A. Determine the range of possible sources
B. Evaluate the different possible sources to determine priorities

3. Location and Access
A. Locate sources (intellectually and physically)
B. Find information within sources

4. Use of Information
A. Engage (e.g., read, hear, view) the information in a source
B. Extract information from a source

5. Synthesis
A. Organize information from multiple sources
B. Present information

6. Evaluation
A. Judge the product
B. Judge the information problem-solving process (efficiency)

c. Eisenberg/Berkowitz

Research Techniques

1. Task Definition
A. Clearly define a topic before starting a search for information
B. Expand or narrow scope of research topic as needed
C. Select the reference tool most appropriate for a specific purpose
D. Construct a thesis statement

2. Information-Seeking Strategies
A. Select appropriate and relevant materials on a topic or issue
B. Recognize that a variety of resource materials are multicultural and interdisciplinary
C. Locate, organize, and use information through reading, listening, observing, and writing
D. Recognize the availability of resource persons in the community and the tools of interviewing for communication and gathering information
E. Identify the key words or subject headings used to locate materials
F. Identify other sources of information: public and other community libraries, galleries, institutions, and government agencies G. Use computer systems to access relevant databases and the world wide web.

3. Location of Materials
A. Locate print and nonprint materials in the library media center
B. Identify interlibrary loan procedures and use the services of the regional School Library Systems to locate information
C. Recognize the significance of primary source materials
D. Identify local, regional, and national databases and procedures for their use

4. Use of Materials
A. Use a wide variety of reference materials
B. Determine the authoritativeness and reliability of resources
C. Differentiate between fact, opinion and propaganda
D. Compare and contrast information from a variety of sources
E. Develop an appropriate topical outline for note taking
F. Organize and record relevant information, using a prepared outline

5. Synthesis
A. Develop a sentence outline for a report on the topic chosen for the research project
B. Prepare a report on the topic to be presented in oral, written, multimedia, or other appropriate form
C. Use footnotes and bibliographies for information and documentation of resources
D. Adhere to copyright regulations and avoid plagiarism
E. Compile bibliographies or lists of works cited
F. Draw conclusions from a variety of resources such as interviews, biographies, periodical articles, etc., noting similarities and differences.

NYSED

1. Questioning
A researcher recognizes decisions, issues and problems when looking at a topic

2. Planning
A researcher identifies sources of information likely to build understanding

3. Gathering
A researcher collects and stores information for later consideration

4. Sorting
A researcher reorganizes information so that the most valuable becomes readily available to support understanding

5. Synthesizing
A researcher recombines information to develop decisions and solutions

6. Evaluating
A researcher determines whether the information gathered is sufficient to support a conclusion

7. Reporting
A researcher translates findings into a persuasive, instructive, or effective product (s)

c. Jamie McKenzie