1. Jim Davis – CED505 What Is Big 6 The 6 Steps 1. Task DefinitionTask Definition 2. Information Seeking StrategiesInformation Seeking Strategies 3. Location And AccessLocation And Access 4. Use Of InformationUse Of Information 5. SynthesisSynthesis 6. EvaluationEvaluation Appraisal Reflections Bibliography Exit Next

2. Big 6 is a 6-stage process model designed to help with the use of information. It is meant to help with identifying information research goals, seeking, using and assembling relevant and credible information. Afterword, it helps evaluate the effectiveness of the presentation of the information. The 6 steps are outlined in the following slides Home Next

3. Define the information problem Outline the steps for preparing for class & note if any information is required for any step Determine whether any of the activities have specific information requirement Identify information needed in order to complete the task (to solve the information problem) For each information-related activity, note whether it involves location and access, information use, or synthesis Realize that the assignment requires both looking and labeling the information. Home Next

4. Determine the range of possible sources (brainstorm) List where to find information Evaluate the different possible sources to determine priorities (select the best sources) Decide whether to ask an expert or use a reference book. Home Next

5. Locate sources (intellectually and physically) Locate sources Map where information is located Find information within sources Look up actual sources of information and the information to be used Home Next

6. Engage (e.g., read, hear, view, touch) the information in a source Scan sources to determine its usefulness Extract relevant information from a source Take notes for later use Home Next

7. Organize information from multiple sources Put note cards (from multiple sources) in a logical order Present the information Create a presentation Home Next

8. Judge the product (effectiveness) Set criteria for judging the presentation Determine whether the information need as originally defined is met. Judge the information problem-solving process (efficiency) Determine which note taking techniques are working State what you would do differently next time Home Next

9. I found the Big 6 site quite informative. It is very similar to the process I try and use for various research projects I become involved with, especially when the subject matter is something I am unfamiliar with. I’ve added the Big 6 link to my personal bookmarks for further use. While it isn’t anything new, it is something I want to periodically refresh my memory with. Home Next

10. I wish I had know about the Big 6 before. The number of times I’ve sat here and written myself an outline of what I needed to do when and how to go about it. Tying in a “review” of the final product is something I’ve never thought of before. It’s completely logical, I’ve just never considered it. Home Next

11. Cambridge Rindge & Latin School CRLS Research Guide http://www.crlsresearchguide.org/Big_Six_Steps.asp The Big 6 Information & Technology For Student Success http://big6.com/ Janet R Murray Applying Big 6 Skills http://www.janetsinfo.com/big6info.htm Home End