Steps to success
Essays and assignments are really information tasks - we undertake research, then we write to express our knowledge or educated opinion on the set topic, showing our understanding of the facts and ideas we have read. The best strategy we can use to produce high quality assignments is to follow the steps of the information process:
The Six Steps of the Information Process
Define the task
Look closely at the set research task and work out what has to be done.
Identify the key sections of the task.
- Break down large sections or topics into logical parts.
- Check the exact meaning of terms used.
- Compile a list of keywords for searching both electronic and print sources.
- Make a research plan that includes all the parts you need to cover.
Locate information
Find information in appropriate resources.
Look in the various sections of the Library.
- Use the Library computer catalogue.
- Use indexes and tables of contents in books.
- Search the Internet and use online resources.
- Ask the library staff.
Select and Analyse
Choose and record relevant material.
Choose material appropriate to the task and your literacy level.
- Check that the resources chosen are up-to-date.
- Judge the relevance and importance of information.
- Be aware of bias that can exist within particular resources.
- Make notes that record valuable information in an effective way.
Organise and Synthesise
Combine the selected information into a meaningful structure.
- Fit together information from the different resources used in your own words.
- Use headings, subheadings and paragraphs where appropriate to build a framework.
- Use appropriate text types.
- Develop a perspective or argument on the topic.
- Make inferences and deductions and draw conclusions.
Create and Present
Publish the information in an effective way.
- Follow presentation instructions.
- Present information clearly in a format appropriate to the task. Combine text, tables, diagrams, images etc. where appropriate.
- Use word-processing and other computer applications to enhance the presentation.
- Look for creative, original solutions to presentation challenges.
- Edit your work carefully.
- Use a bibliography to show the resources that have been consulted.
Evaluate and Reflect
- Evaluate this attempt and look for improvements.
- Evaluate how well you handled the assignment.
- Read the Teacher's feedback carefully.
- Reflect critically on the research process and formulate areas for improvement in the future.
|
