6 Steps to Solve an Information Problem

It's no secret that I am a big fan of the Big 6 and I wanted a fresh, new way to show students this easy way to solve information problems.  In comes PowToon. You may remember my previous blog post about PowToon here. This was my first attempt at using this online presentation software tool. I used a pre-made template and tailored it to my needs. What do you think? Would you use a tool like this for your next presentation?

"Big" Alumnus

Dr. Michael B. Eisenberg, best known for developing the Big6™ information literacy model, as described in our last blog post, is also a Mepham alumnus! A graduate of the class of 1967, Dr. Eisenberg served as the layout editor of The Buccaneer, our school newspaper. He also served as a member of the repertory band, french club, and ski club. It certainly appears that he was destined for great things. I recently stumbled upon this information as I flipped through the pages of the Treasure Chest, our school's yearbook. This year Dr. Eisenberg has been selected to join the W.C. Mepham High School Who's Who Hall of Fame. Congratulations, Dr. Eisenberg. We are proud to call you one of our own!

Photo taken from the faculty directory at the University of Washington Information School

The Big6™

The Big6™ is a proven approach to information problem solving. It helps you succeed in school and life. Use the Big6 to find, use, apply, and evaluate information for specific needs and tasks. In the school library we have Big6 assignment organizers designed to help you stay focused on your research projects. Come in today to pick one up and check out the resources that can help you with your next research paper or project. The Big6 steps below will assist you with any problem.

Big6 1: Task Definition
1.1 Define the information problem
1.2 Identify the information you need in order to complete the task (to solve the information problem)

Big6 2: Information Seeking Strategies
2.1 Determine the range of possible sources (brainstorm)
2.2 Evaluate the different possible sources to determine priorities (select the best sources)

Big6 3: Location & Access
3.1 Locate sources
3.2 Find information within sources

Big6 4: Use of Information
4.1 Engage in the source (read, listen, view, touch)
4.2 Take out the relevant information from a source

Big6 5: Synthesis
5.1 Organize information from multiple sources
5.2 Present the information

Big6 6: Evaluation
6.1 Judge your product (how effective were you)
6.2 Judge your information problem-solving process (how efficient were you)

Big6 logo taken from the Big6 website