Task Definition | research

#1: TASK DEFINITION

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EQ: How can we use technology and information literacy for developing Task Definition skills?

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Sara Lefever

The first step in the information problem-solving process is to recognize that an information need exists, to define the problem, and to identify the types and amounts of information needed.Students will be able to:

Define the information problem.
Identify information needed to complete the task.

1.1 Define the information problem

Part 1: Define the Problem

Ask: What do I have to do or find out?

Make sure that you know the following things about your assignment:

1. What kind of final product are you expected to present to the teacher?

Is it a written report?
An oral presentation?
A poster?
Or something else?

2. Does it have to be a certain length, size, or duration of time?

Do you have any freedom of choice in how to present what you will learn? (See: Alternative Formats for Presenting Research Projects)

3. What is the topic of the assignment?

Does your teacher give you the specific topic (subject) of your assignment?
Do you have any freedom to select a topic for yourself?
Do you have to create a thesis statement (take a position, make an argument) ?
Did the teacher give you a very general topic that you have to focus to a smaller topic?

4. What is the due date for your final product?

Are there any parts of the assignment due before the final due date (like a rough draft, notes, outline, etc.)?

Helpful Hint: Get an assignment calendar and write any due dates in it. This will help you plan your time to get the assignment done by the due date. Most teachers will take off points from your grade for late work.

1.2 Identify the information required

Part 2: Identify the information required

Ask: What information do I need to start the task (assignment)?

Once you are clear about what your assignment is, you will want to start looking for information. Before you jump to the computer, an encyclopedia, or the catalog, take a moment to prepare for searching.

1. What are the key words or key phrases I can use to get the information I need?

How many different ways are there to say your topic ?
Are there any related ideas that you could look up also?

2. What questions do I want to answer?

Brainstorm a list of questions before you begin to look for information.
Those questions will give you more key words and key phrases to use in your search.

3. What kinds of information will I be searching for?

Do you need descriptions, maps, pictures, statistics, biographical information, etc.?

4. How am I required to cite the resources I will use? (give them credit)

Do you have to make a formal bibliography or "works cited" list? If not, what information are you required to give about the resources you use?

Ready for the next step? Click here for #2: Information Seeking Strategies