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I need help with my research paper, but I've never researched anything before.
No. What is the Big6?
The Big6 is a research and inquiry model designed to assist you in your research by giving you a six-step process to follow as you work to solve your information problem.
Six steps doesn't sound too bad. What are they and how do I apply them to my research paper?
Here are the Big6: Task Definition, Info Seeking Strategies, Location & Access, Use of Info, Synthesis, and Evaluation.
Source: TheBig6.org. (n.d.). TheBig6.Org. Retrieved October 3, 2020, from https://thebig6.org
The Big6:1. Task Definition1.1 Define the information problem1.2 Identify information needed2. Information Seeking Strategies2.1 Determine all possible sources2.2 Select the best sources3. Location and Access3.1 Locate sources (intellectually and physically)3.2 Find information within sources
4. Use of Information4.1 Engage (e.g., read, hear, view, touch)4.2 Extract relevant information5. Synthesis5.1 Organize from multiple sources5.2 Present the information6. Evaluation6.1 Judge the product (effectiveness)6.2 Judge the process (efficiency)
The Big6 Applied:
Don't forget to run your sources through a CRAAP test!
1. Task Definition: What is my topic? -Decided on a topic for your research-Identify what you need to know or present on your topic2. Information Seeking: What do I want to know?Here is where you may want to ask a librarian for assistance.-Use all resources available to you to track down information about your topic-Make sure your sources are the best match for your topic and are from a reliable source.
CRAAP Test:
Source: McNeilly, S. (2020, June 10). Evaluating Websites Using the CRAAP Test [Research Guide]. AUM Library: LibGuides: AUM Library Research Help. https://libguides.aum.edu/c.php?g=637570&p=4462768
REMEMBER! Vet your sources to prove to others you know yourC urrency: The timeliness of the information.R elevance: The importance of the information for yourneeds.A uthority: The source of the information.A ccuracy: The reliability, truthfulness, and correctness of the informational content.P urpose: The reason the information exists.
... The Big6 Applied:
3. Location and Access: How do I find & access these resources?-Locate the resources, if you have trouble finding or accessing resources ask a librarian! The earlier you ask the more options and resources are available to you.-Once you have your items skim through the information and highlight the most relevant information pertaining to your research topic. If you find too much consider narrowing your topic, if you find to little, consider broadening it.
... The Big6 Applied:
4. Use of Information: What info's important and relevant?-Engage your information. This often is just reading but it can also include viewing related videos; listening to podcasts and interviews; or interacting with people, objects, software, hardware, etc. relevant to your research topic.-Make sure whatever you find, it relevant and meets all the necessary criteria for your research paper. Your professor and your librarians are always available to help clarify any questions you may have.
... The Big6 Applied:
While the job of evaluating your paper for a grade is done by your professor, it is good to develop the habit of reflecting on and reevaluation your research.
5. Synthesis: The final product.-Once you have all of your relevant information, you must combine and edit it to fit into the required length of your research paper.-Then you are ready to present your findings to your professor, class, and other interested parties.6. Evaluation: What went right & how do I improve?While this part is done by your professor when he or she grades your paper, it is good to develop the habit of reflecting and reevaluation your research.
... The Big6 Applied:
The earlier you seek help about questions or concerns pertaining to your paper or in trying to find and retrieve resources, the more efficient your process can be.
... Evaluation (continued):-Judge the effectiveness of the product. Did your paper capture what it sought to capture about the topic? -Judge the efficiency of the process. How could the process be done better next time to reduce wasted time and effort?
Remember, even when it may not feel like it, your professors and us librarians want to see you succeed in your academic endeavors. You are not alone. We are here to help you.
What if I need help when the library's closed or if I can't get to the library?
Thanks for your help. I feel a little bit better now.
As long as you have access to a phone or the internet you can call, text, or chat with us virtually. Any questions submitted outside of library hours will be answered within 48 hours.
Anytime!
If you need help with your research, contact YOUR AUM Library!Reference Desk:Phone: (334) 244-3649Text: (334) 384-1851or Chat with us on our website: http://aumnicat.aum.edu/
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