A Problem Solving Approach To Information Skills The Big Six A Problem Solving Approach To Information Skills “The Computer as an Educational Tool: Productivity and Problem Solving” ©Richard C. Forcier and Don E. Descy

The Big Six...What is it? A general approach to information problem-solving that can be applied to any information problem situation

The Big Six Skills Defined 1. Task definition 2. Information seeking strategies 3. Location and access 4. Use of information 5. Synthesis 6. Evaluation

Information Needs “Every day, people are faced with numerous information needs, some more important than others.” Eisenberg and Berkowitz

“Consciously or not, individuals Eisenberg and Berkowitz A Process “Consciously or not, individuals undertake an active process to meet those needs.” Eisenberg and Berkowitz

1. Task Definition Define the information problem What do I need to know? What am I supposed to do? What information do I need in order to do this?

2. Information Seeking Strategies Determine the range of possible sources Brainstorm Evaluate the different possible sources Which ones are best for me to use? Select the best sources

3. Location and Access Where will I find these resources? Who can help me find what I need? Locate sources Find information within sources

4. Use of Information Engage the information in a source Read, hear, view, touch Extract relevant information from a source Take notes, make chart, use a tape recorder How will I give credit to my sources?

5. Synthesis Organize information from multiple resources What product or performance will I make to finish my assignment? Present the information Write, paint, record, diagram How will I credit sources in my final product?

6. Evaluation Was the information problem solved? What would I do differently next time? Judge the product Judge the problem solving process Am I pleased with my project?

Daily Applications Task Definition Students need to fully understand what is being asked. Task Definition

Information Seeking Strategies Daily Applications How will I find out? What will my sources be? Information Seeking Strategies

Daily Applications Locate the source Scan material Location and Access

Daily Applications Extract the relevant data Use of Information

Synthesis Daily Applications Organize and write an answer in the required format Synthesis

Daily Applications How well did I do on this assignment? Evaluation

The Big Six Information problem-solving process Provides students transferable skills Students gain competency Become effective users of information Acquire capacity for lifelong learning