Research Models

In our textbook, there are three research models presented:

• Information Seeking by Carol Kuhlthau
• Big6 by Michael Eisenberg and Robert Berkowitz
• Research Process by Barbara Stripling and Judy Pitts

Additionally, the BCTLA has created a model know as Research Quest.
Ultimately, all four of the research models are the same, they have just broken the research process into more or fewer steps and used different terminology to describe the steps.  To evaluate them, I did a little more exploration on-line.

• Information Seeking - I found Carol Kulhthau's website where there was only a certain amount of other information bout her model.  I appreciate how she lays out the internal/emotional/cognitive process that students may go through when researching (uncertainty, optimism, confusion, clarity, etc.).  However, it looks like I need to purchase and read her books to get a really good grasp of her model.
• Big6 - Big6 appears to be a very popular research model and I found many links and references to it at various library sites. I like that there is information on using Big6 (or even Big3) with younger students.  What I found a bit frustrating was that any of the information I looked at about Big6 was connected by more and more electronic links.  So yes, there are only 6 main points in the Big6, but to understand these you must follow the links to break down each section into questions.  I was unable to find one page that concisely listed it all.  Here is a study done by the ALA that examines use of research models, initially comparing them then ultimately using Big6, showing the "scaffolding" that is created for students when using a research model.
• Research Process by Stripling & Pitts - I actually like that this model has 10 steps as it makes it more clear as to what you need to do at each of the steps.  I did find a nice overview of this model that included "reflection points" as many of the steps.  I find this is useful as a self-check for students.  Ultimately, I was not able to find a lot of information about this model.  In fact, even in our textbook there is not much information.
• Research Quest - This model, created by the BCTLA has only 5 steps, making it fairly simple for students.  What I really like about it is that there is a one page "students guide" that can be printed out for students to follow along with as they are working on their research project.  The guide includes many questions at each step to help students work through the five steps.

I have not used any of the research models presented and was actually unaware of them before starting this course.  As someone with a science background, I appreciate the need for a set path to follow when conducting research and see the value in teaching students using a model they can use.  I also believe it is important to get students following a model when they are young and to be consistent with this model so they develop strong research skills.  In this age of instant information and frequent Google searches, I think the need for using a clear cut model is even more important - it is so easy to get sidetracked and move away from the research path!

Right now, in my library, there is no time allotted to work with classes on research projects but I am looking to changing that for next year.  I will need to introduce a research model to both students and teachers at the school as nothing is currently being used.  I think I will start with Research Quest - I like that it is a "local" model and the simplicity of printing up a student guide and having them hang in the library, classrooms etc. is appealing. It can also be included in the students agenda and on the website. Will take a look right now to see if I can find it in French!