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Library Research Methods: Research as Inquiry

How to locate Library Resources

Framework Defined

Research as Inquiry refers to an understanding that research is iterative and depends upon asking increasingly complex or new questions whose answers develop additional questions or lines of inquiry in any field.

Consider: Are there ways you break complex assignments into simpler ones that build to a comparable conclusion?

Selectimng and Using Keywords

Inform Your Thinking: Episode 6 - Search Smarter

There’s an absolutely ridiculous amount of information out there in the world, with more and more being created, published, and shared every day in a huge number of formats. Sure, searching online is easier than it’s ever been, but you’re probably just scratching the surface when you do a search. How can you more effectively explore information to find better resources for your own academic research and daily lives? (3:40 min.)

Alignment with 2000 ACRL Standards

Standard One: The information literate student determines the nature and extent of the information needed
 
Standard Two: The information literate student accesses needed information effectively and efficiently.
 
Standard Three: The information literate student evaluates information and its sources critically and incorporates selected information into his or her knowledge base and value system.

From: Hovious, Amanda. “Alignment Charts for ACRL Standards and Proposed Framework.” Google Docs, January 23, 2015.

Key Aspects

  • Start with what you already know. Begin by drawing upon your knowledge base.
  • Learn as you go! Be open to shifting your research as you discover new areas of knowledge.
  • Research is like building with Legos. It builds upon itself through searching, browsing existing research, and asking questions.
  • Seek the experts. Don’t forget to ask for insights from professors and librarians.
  • Be persistent and don’t get discouraged. Research can be challenging. If you don’t find something right away don’t give up.

Research as Inquiry