Information Processing Models

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One of the AASL’s standards for 21st century learners is [they will] “inquire, think critically, and gain knowledge” and “follow an inquiry- based process in seeking knowledge in curricular subjects, and make the real-world connection for using this process in [his/her] own life.” (ALA, 2007, p. 4)

Three research process models that help students make independent choices, ask questions, find resources, and discover information are the Big6™, Kuhlthau’s Information Search Process, and I-Search. This paper will compare and contrast these models and discuss their use in teaching students to research on their own.

Big6™

The first process considered is the Big6™. Mike Eisenberg and Bob Berkowitz, two information literacy educators, developed the Big6 that uses six skill areas to provide students with a systematic means to solve problems using critical thinking skills. It is the most widely known and widely used information research process in the world. (Wurster, 2011) According to Eisenberg (2001), the purpose of the Big6™ is to help students work smarter. Educators, librarians and parents accomplish this is by helping students develop the skills and understanding they need to find, process, and use information effectively by focusing on process and content.

As presented by Carey (1998, Appendix A) the six components of the process are 1) Task Definition, 2) Information Seeking Strategies, 3) Location and Access, 4) Use of Information, 5) Synthesis, and 6) Evaluation. Task Definition consists of defining the information problem and identifying the information needed. Information Seeking Strategies are composed of determining all possible sources and selecting the best sources. Location and Access include intellectuall...

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Eisenberg, M. (2001). Big6™ Skills Overview. [Website blog] Retrieved from http://www.big6.com/2001/11/19/a-big6%e2%84%a2-skills-overview/

Kuhlthau, C. (1989). Information search process: A summary of research and implications for school library media Programs. School Library Media Quarterly, 18(1). Retrieved from http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/aasl/aaslpubsandjournals/slmrb/ editorschoiceb/infopower/slctkuhlthau2.cfm

Kuhlthau, C. (n. d.) [Personal webpage] Retrieved from http://comminfo.rutgers.edu/~kuhlthau/index.html

Tallman, J., & Joyce, M. (2006). Making the writing and research connection with the I-Search process. New York: Neal-Schuman Publishers, Inc

Wurster, S. (2011) WHAT IS THE BIG6?. [Website blog] Retrieved from http://www.big6.com/about/

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