Locating Information
When locating information use a varied range of sources, this is because all information tends to be biased by perspective. These steps will help you develop critical evaluation skills when selecting relevant resources. Sources of information include books, people, web pages and databases.
Search and select the best resources for your research by following these steps:
1. Locate varied sources of information from databases, websites, newspapers, journal articles, newspapers, books, organisations and people.
2. Use key terms, dates, specific sites (health, gov, wa) and boolean (AND, NOT, OR) searches.
3. Skim information for relevant information and keywords (command + f to search key terms).
4. Identify bias - ask the author's motive.
5. Collect date that is valid, reliable, accurate and current.
6. Use primary and secondary sources.
7. Understand copyright.
Example Locating
Primary and Secondary Sources
IB.ATL.RES.1.11 Identify Primary and Secondary Resources
- State Library of Victoria. (2016). Primary and secondary sources. http://ergo.slv.vic.gov.au/learn-skills/research-skills/select-resources/primary-secondary-sources
Primary and secondary sources are used to validate your evidence. Primary sources are first-hand accounts created by people who witnessed the events they've recorded. Primary sources can include documents, illustrations, photographs, maps, music, audio recordings, etc. Secondary sources interpret and comment on primary sources.
Evaluate and Select Information Sources
- Data Collection and Evaluation TemplateDownload and complete this template to develop your understanding of selecting appropriate sources of information and digital technology to process information.
IB.ATL.RES.1.13 Evaluate and select information sources and digital tools based on their appropriateness to specific tasks
- Source Evaluation TemplateDownload and complete this source evaluation template to develop your understanding of selecting appropriate sources of information.
Data Collection Tool
IB.ATL.RES.1.01 Collect, record and verify data
- Data Collection TemplateDownload and modify this data collection template to support your research.
Copyright Guide
- Copyright GuideIB.ATL.RES.1.14 Understand and implement intellectual property rights