Our next research topic in Individuals & Society focuses on finding information on the government structure of a different country in the Western Hemisphere. Up to this point, students have been relying on databases and trusted resources for much of their research. Now, it's time for them to find their own resources to supplement their research! Due to the fact that there is endless information and websites out there, it is very important for students to learn and practice specific strategies to help them determine if the information they come across is relevant, appropriate, detailed, current, has authorship, and to be aware of bias when necessary. That's A LOT to consider!! We began our discussions this week with a great book:
Next, students were given sample websites and asked for what they thought made the information trustworthy or untrustworthy. Even though this was very early in our discussion, the students demonstrated that they already had some background knowledge in this area to help them make informed decisions.
Then it was time to really dig into the RADCAB strategy itself! We ended the week working on "R"-Relevancy and "A" Appropriateness. Relevancy teaches the students to determine if the information is directly connected to their research topic. They can test this by coming up with focus questions and keywords based on their topic and using the search tool on a website to identify what is presented. We explored websites on pets and the students found some really relevant sites and some "not so good" ones too!
Appropriateness teaches the students to ask themselves the following questions:
*Can you understand what is written on this website?
*Who do you think this website is intended for?
*Does this website match my values?
After break, we will continue to work on the RADCAB strategy which will set us up for our government research!!
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