Research Essentials Week 2 Notes
What is Research?
The systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and
reach new conclusions.
Informational Literacy (IL):
The ability to identify, find, evaluate, organize, use and communicate information in various
formats.
Research begins with a question.
● This research question determines where you look for information and tells you if you
found enough to address your needs.
● While researching, your question may change, which is okay. It’s best to stay flexible.
Research is situational.
● The types of sources you consult will depend on the research question being addressed.
There are no “good sources” that are right for every researcher. It depends on your topic
and purpose.
● Some sources you’ve been told are the most credible are as problematic as the sources
(like Wikipedia) that you’ve been told not to use. This has to do with who is and is not
allowed to create information.
Research is a process.
● Research is not a linear process in that you select a topic, find relevant sources, then
stick them in your paper. It’s best described as cyclical; you may go through the same
steps a number of times.
● Successful researches try multiple approaches, revise their searches based on results,
use a variety of source types to match their needs, and let serendipity happen.
Research is exploration.
● Research is NOT a one-stop shop.
● Research DOES NOT start with a conclusion; you shouldn’t be simply looking for
sources that confirm your own opinion before you’ve explored the topic fully. And that
comes only by reading a variety of sources about it.
● As you research, stay open-minded about your own beliefs and allow the information
you discover to inform your own thinking.
