How to do research

1. How to do research Finding the Connections

2. Research … • at the very least, is problem solving. • is really about learning, exploring and making connections. • takes time! • must have focus for success.

3. Before you research … • you must have a clear understanding of the topic and the “question” it proposes. Your goal is to create a thesis, supported by proof from your research. (Remember: the thesis is always the answer to the question.) • you should have research questions (recommendation: 5) so you know when your research is complete.

4. Types of Material • Primary source: original material • Examples: letters, diaries, speeches, government documents, scientific experiments, advertising, novels, videos, editorials … • Can be accessed through a technological source • Secondary source: response to the original. • Examples: analyses, critiques, book reports, responses, editorials … • Accessed through print and technological mediums.

5. Where to research Print, Web, Database, Personal

6. Print resources • Absolutely – and yes, for the moment, they are out there! • Not always easy to find or access

7. Web material • Use judiciously! • Always know the sources; must be reputable. • Must be current. • Can be useful for ‘information gathering’.

8. databases • The ‘must-have’ of research, especially at university. • Print material that you are accessing through technological means. • General databases (Academic One File; Advanced; Gold) • Subject specific (War; Health ..) • Institutionally specific (Universities; programs; ERIC)

9. When you access a database • Look for full text articles only. • Peer reviewed elevates the scholarship. • Be very specific in the language you use; it will either focus or distort the search. • Search multiple databases for information. • Will provide you with citation reference (usually MLA). • Check also Andy Spinks.com; OWL by Purdue University

10. OTHER …. • Can be personal in nature, such as interviews. • Can be videos (a primary source) • TED talks(Technology, Entertainment, Design) Caution: should be substantial, either in length or content.

11. Final product Annotated Bibliography

12. Very specific format • Citation (using MLA format) • Followed by summary (approximately 75 - 100 words). Must summarize key points and also indicate the level of scholarship of the source (i.e. author’s background and competency.) • Followed by analysis (approximately 75 – 100 words). May be in a separate paragraph or included together – teacher’s preference at OLMC – usually one at university. • Check Seneca.ca (under MLA) formatting for samples of annotations.

13. Honesty and integrity; not plagiarism • An expectation in all the work that you do. • Need to acknowledge all materials and ideas that are not your own, whether quoted or paraphrased. • Citation needs to be accurate and thorough. • Serious consequences …… OLMC (Turnitin) Post –secondary society

14. Plagiarism pledge This will be submitted prior to the first assignment; expectations will be made clear to both you and your parents/guardians.