Research Goals and Competencies

R1 - I define the information problem.

R1-a. I can Identify prior knowledge and information needed

R1-b. I can formulate questions based on my information need

R1-c. I can explore general information sources to increase familiarity with a topic

R1-d. can Identify key concepts (related topics) and terms (vocabulary) that describe the information need

R1-e. I can develop and follow a research plan and timeline

R1-f. I can refine questions that lead to gathering of different types of information (overview, big ideas, specific details, cause and effect, comparison, etc.)

R2 - I utilize information seeking strategies.

R2-a. I can independently develop a search strategy using different subject areas, collections, keywords and subject headings

R2-b. I can identify different types, formats and uses of information sources

R2-c. I can seek multiple perspectives to eliminate bias

R2-d. I consider audience and what type of information will answer the question: factual, analytical, objective, subjective, current, historical, etc.

R2-e. I understand hierarchical concepts such as narrow terms, broad terms, etc.

R3 - I access and evaluate information sources.

R3-a. I can independently evaluate sources based on usefulness, currency, accuracy, authority, and point of view

R3-b. I can locate sources digitally, intellectually and physically

R3-c. I can locate information that is appropriate for my age and proficiency level

R3-d. I can independently distinguish, use, and navigate a variety of sources to locate information which will answer question(s)

R3-e. I can independently evaluate sources based on usefulness, currency, accuracy, authority, and point of view.

R4 - I leverage information in ethical ways.

R4-a. I can sort, classify and sequence information from multiple sources independently

R4-b. I can use graphic organizers and/or an outline to arrange information logically

R4-c. I can use both facts and opinions responsibly by identifying and verifying them (various note-taking strategies)

R4-d. I can note similarities and differences in information from different sources

R4-e. I can evaluate, paraphrase, and summarize information and refine information to that which relates specifically to the question or problem

R4-f. I can demonstrate ability to use information ethically (fair use, copyright, plagiarism, etc.), write complete citations for all sources, and provide internal citations (parenthetical references, in-text citations, footnotes, etc.)

R5 - I synthesize and communicate information.

R5-a. I can review ideas held at the beginning of inquiry and reflections captured during note-taking, integrating new information with previous information or knowledge to form new perspectives and theories

R5-b. I can analyze and make inferences from data

R5-c. I can draw conclusions based on explicit and implied information

R5-d. I can consider the purpose and audience for the product and/or presentation

R5-e. I can share new understanding(s) in a variety of appropriate formats

R5-f. I can apply new knowledge and understanding to real-world issues and problems

R6 - I assess, evaluate, and reflect upon my research.

R6-a. I can modify and revise my work based on feedback from others

R6-b. I can reflect at the end of an inquiry process to identify additional areas of personal interest for pursuit in the future