Big 6 Research Steps
Big6™ Steps for Library Research
#1. Task Definition
1.1 Define the problem.
– What does your teacher want you to do?
– Ask for an explanation of anything unclear.
1.2 Identify the information needed.
– What do you already know?
– What more do you need to find out?
#2. Information Seeking Strategies
2.1 Determine all possible sources: library books, reference works, online databases, Internet websites, videos, experts on your topic, etc.
2.2 Select the best sources for your needs.
#3. Location and Access
3.1 Locate resources.
3.2 Find information within sources.
#4. Use of Information
4.1 Engage (e.g. read, hear, view the information in the source).
4.2 Extract relevant information.
#5. Synthesis
5.1 Organize information from multiple sources.
5.2 Present the result.
#6 Evaluation
6.1 Judge the result (effectiveness).
6.2 Judge the process (efficiency).