The PURPOSE of Research
Research is an opportunity to engage in independent learning and develop information gathering skills.
In a school setting, we conduct research to learn about things on a deeper level,
to make connections between important ideas,
and to communicate what we have learned in a complete and meaningful way.
Basically, we do research to explore and share information in our own unique way, so have fun with it!
In a school setting, we conduct research to learn about things on a deeper level,
to make connections between important ideas,
and to communicate what we have learned in a complete and meaningful way.
Basically, we do research to explore and share information in our own unique way, so have fun with it!
The PROCESS of Research
In order to do good research, we have to have a good plan!
Follow the 6 Stages of the Information Search Process to find your way.
Follow the 6 Stages of the Information Search Process to find your way.
Stage 1: INITIATION
I should be... Reviewing my teacher's instructions, understanding expectations.
I might feel... Uncertain, confused, or unclear about the assignment.
I can keep going by... Asking the teacher to explain details and clear-up any confusion.
I might feel... Uncertain, confused, or unclear about the assignment.
I can keep going by... Asking the teacher to explain details and clear-up any confusion.
Stage 2: SELECTION
I should be... Thinking about the topic, or topics, that I want to learn about.
I might feel... Unsure about which topic to choose or where to look for more info.
I can keep going by... Brainstorming ideas - try using thinking maps, diagrams, or bubble charts.
I might feel... Unsure about which topic to choose or where to look for more info.
I can keep going by... Brainstorming ideas - try using thinking maps, diagrams, or bubble charts.
Stage 3: EXPLORATION
I should be... Investigating my topic, and taking notes along the way.
I might feel... Overwhelmed with too much information, too many sources, or too many ideas.
I can keep going by... Reviewing my brainstorms and connecting information to my original plans.
I might feel... Overwhelmed with too much information, too many sources, or too many ideas.
I can keep going by... Reviewing my brainstorms and connecting information to my original plans.
Stage 4: FORMULATION
I should be... Organizing my notes and seeking a variety of sources.
I might feel... Very confident in my work and ready to rush to the end of the project.
I can keep going by... Taking my time, outlining my work, and building upon my main ideas.
I might feel... Very confident in my work and ready to rush to the end of the project.
I can keep going by... Taking my time, outlining my work, and building upon my main ideas.
Stage 5: COLLECTION
I should be... Choosing what information to include, what to take out, and creating my rough drafts.
I might feel... Impatient and in a hurry - maybe even stressed about deadlines.
I can keep going by... Going step by step, getting feedback on my rough drafts, revising my work.
I might feel... Impatient and in a hurry - maybe even stressed about deadlines.
I can keep going by... Going step by step, getting feedback on my rough drafts, revising my work.
Stage 6: PRESENTATION
I should be... Saving, printing, and sharing final products, or rehearsing for a presentation.
I might feel... Nervous about presenting my work, being on time, or getting a good grade.
I can keep going by... Double- and triple-checking my work, and giving myself plenty of time to prepare.
I might feel... Nervous about presenting my work, being on time, or getting a good grade.
I can keep going by... Double- and triple-checking my work, and giving myself plenty of time to prepare.
Remember...
Research is a process that takes time - not a goal that we rush to get to!
At every Stage, you can always get help - if you ask for it!
Research can be stressful and confusing - so have a plan!
And above all else...
At every Stage, you can always get help - if you ask for it!
Research can be stressful and confusing - so have a plan!
And above all else...