The Big 6: An information problem solving process model Presented by Robert Duncan

The Big 6- What is it? A process approach to solving information problems Program created by Michael E. Eisenberg and Robert E. Berkowitz Most widely used model in schools today. Top down approach; see the big picture before you worry about details.

The Big 6 Step #1: Task Definition: What is the problem to be solved? - understand the nature or type of assignment - define the information problem What information is needed to solve the problem? - can they narrow the scope - identify the information needed to complete the task

The Big 6 - determine the range of possible sources Step #2: Information-Seeking Strategies What are all the possible sources of information? - determine the range of possible sources (make lists, brainstorm) What are the best of all the possibilities? - evaluate the possible sources, and select the best - give a reason why it is the best

The Big 6 Step #3: Location and Access Where are these sources? - reference books, databases, web sites, interviews - the multi-step process of locating sources may be a challenge - pathfinders are one idea Where is the information within each source? - keywords, related topics - using an index, table of contents, - skimming, headings & subheadings

The Big 6 Step #4: Use of Information What information does the source provide? - students have to engage themselves in the materials, (i.e., read, hear, view, touch) the information What specific information is worth applying to the task? - extract the relevant information from the source - note taking (Cornell Note Taking Method) - proper citation

The Big 6 Step #5: Synthesis How does the information from all sources fit together? - organize the information - category, alphabetically, chronologically, as a story, combination of all What is the best way to present the information? - essay, speech, video, poster, PowerPoint - synthesis must keep in mind Step #1 (Task Definition)

The Big 6 Step #6: Evaluation Was the problem solved? - students judge their product - compare it to the requirements - checklist, or rubric - is it effective? If I had to do this again, what would I do differently? - self assessment - judge the information problem process (efficiency)

Why use the BIG 6? Students often become confused in the initial stages of research. They become uncertain how to proceed. Many students give up because they feel incompetent and confused. Initial part of the research process is the most difficult stage of the process. Rather than become more confident as the assignment progresses, students lose confidence as soon as they encounter difficulty.

Information Literacy Information literate students are those who have learned how to learn. They know how to learn because they know how information is organized, how to find information and how to use information in such a way that others can learn from them.

New Test New standardized test by the Educational Testing Service (ETS): Information and Communication Technology Literacy Assessment Initially there will be a test for high school seniors and for students in college. There are future plans for developing a test for grades 7-10

Applications to Real Life School work (homework, papers, project, exam) Personal situations (buying a gift, purchasing a car, choosing a college) Whenever information is needed to solve a problem

On-line references for the Cornell Note Taking Method Cornell University Learning Strategies Center http://www.clt.cornell.edu/campus/learn/LSC%20Resources/cornellsystem.pdf Bucks County Community College “Learning Center” in Pennsylvania www.bucks.edu/~specpop/Cornl-ex.htm