b.  Big6 is the most widely known and widely used approach

      to teaching information and technology skills in the world

 c.  Big6 integrates information search and use skills along

      with technology tools in a systematic process to find,

      use, apply, and evaluate information for specific needs and tasks 

II. Definition

 a.  The Big6 model provides a systematic approach to problem solving and can be applied whenever the student has a research assignment. 

 

b.  It works well with interdisciplinary projects. 

 

c.  The students are instructed in the use of six basic steps

III. Components

a.  The six steps are as follows:

 

1.  Task Definition - define the information problem & identify information needed in order to complete the task (to solve the information problem)

 

2.  Information Seeking Strategies - determine the range of possible sources (brainstorm) & evaluate the different possible sources to

    determine priorities (select the best sources)

 

3.  Location and Access - locate sources (intellectually and physically) & find information within sources

 

4.  Use of Information  -  engage (e.g.) read, hear, view, touch) the information in a source & extract relevant information from a source

 

5.  Synthesis - organize information from multiple sources &  present the information

 

6.  Evaluation - judge the product (effectiveness) & judge the information problem-solving process (efficiency)

 

 

 

IV. Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

Learn transferable planning and organizing skills they will be able to apply for a lifetime (School:homework, tests, decision-making, writing, research, projects and Life: workplace, selecting entertainment, pursuing hobbies, friendship issues, making reservations, job hunting, apartment hunting)

- Find, sort, and apply relevant, credible information to creatively solve a problem.

- Prepare a solution based on reliable information, and give proper credit to information sources.

- Achieve results using any individual learning style. Students will consider if their current style and approach works well for problem solving.

- Understand general problem-solving concepts and then refine each skill to learn and perfect specific details. 

 

Disadvantages

 

 I could find no information on the disadvantages of using Big6.

 

 

V. Implications for the Library Media Center

a.  Has been used effectivley as a strategy for helping students udnerstand reference skills and information seeking strategies.

 

b.  Lessons should be created collaboratively between teachers and librarians to get most out of library resources and research

     time for students.

 

c.  There has proven to be a potential link between a specific information problem-solving model such as Big6 and

     metacognitive skills.   Teachers and librarians should keep this in mind when collaborating on the curriculum.

 

 

 

 

VI. Website Links

1.  http://laurabaas.com/information-literacy/information-literacy-models/big-6/

 

2.  http://www.big6.com

 

3.  http://nb.wsd.wednet.edu/big6/big6_resources.htm

 

4.  http://www.kn.att.com/wired/big6/use.htm

 

5.  http://www.janetsinfo.com/big6info.htm