The Bridge: JKCS Learning Commons

Big 6 Research Method Step 1: Define Your Task

• Brainstorm possible questions. Select the best one that interests you. • What is your research problem or question? • Who will be your audience? • What type of information do you need to solve my problem? • Do you need current or historical materials? • Do you need many or only a few sources?

Step 2: Information Seeking Strategies • What sources of information are available? • Prioritize the sources: which ones would be the most helpful to begin with?

Step 3: Location and Access • Which resources did you select? Why? • Find the information within your sources. • Do you need to revise my research question based on the availability of sources and the

type of information found? If so, what is your revised question? Step 4: Using the Information

• Read, view and listen • Interpret, record, and organize key facts and information • Record all citations for each source used

Step 5: Synthesis and Presentation • Organize the information into a usable format • Review, revise, reorganize, edit • Present your information to your audience

Step 6: Evaluation and Reflection • What did you learn about the topic? • What worked well? • What will you do differently next time? • What did you learn about research?

(Adapted from the Big6 Model and from the Research Quest Model) Rieldling, 2013, p. 12 and UBC Course, LIBE 467 Course Content, Theme One, Lesson Two