Savvy Searcher

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Savvy Searcher: Keywords

This badge details the steps needed to complete when searching, creating, and forming a research question. The first step of refining a search strategy to design an appropriate research focus is extremely important to a successful research project. This badge will help you learn how to conduct appropriate keyword searches and some of the basic differences between various search engines.

For those interested in the standards: This badge corresponds to the ACRL Information Literacy Standard 1: The information literate student determines the nature and extent of the information needed. performance Indicator 1: The information literate student defines and articulates the need for information. Outcomes 1A, 1B,1D, and 1E: The information literate student confers with instructors and participates in class discussions, peer workgroups, and electronic discussions to identify a research topic, or other information need. The information literate student develops a thesis statement and formulates questions based on the information need. The information literate student defines or modifies the information need to achieve a manageable focus and the information literate student identifies key concepts and terms that describe the information need Performance Indicator 4: The information literate student reevaluates the nature and extent of the information need. Outcomes 4A and 4B: The information literate student reviews the initial information need to clarify, revise, or refine the question and the information literate student describes criteria used to make information decisions and choices.

ACRL IL Framework Correlation: Searching is Strategic (Knowledge Practice: Determine the scope of the question or task required to meet their information needs
ACRL IL Framework Correlation: Research as Inquiry
Knowledge Practice: Formulate questions for research based on information gaps or reexamination of existing, possibly conflicting, information
Knowledge Practice: Determine an appropriate scope of investigation

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Savvy Searcher: Refining

This badge is the second in a series of two badges designed to help you formulate your research topic and narrow it to a research question. In this badge you will expand on your keyword search, form a preliminary question, refine and expand your search, and reflect on the process of creating a research question. These are all essential steps in producing a quality product or artifact of your work.

For professionals interested in the standard: This badge correlates to the ACRL Standard 1: The information literate student determines the nature and extent of the information needed. Performance Indicator 1: The information literate student defines and articulates the need for information. Outcomes A and B: The information literate student confers with instructors and participates in class discussions, peer workgroups, and electronic discussions to identify a research topic, or other information need. The information literate student develops a thesis statement and formulates questions based on the information need Performance Indicator 4: The information literate student reevaluates the nature and extent of the information need. Outcomes A and B: The information literate student reviews the initial information need to clarify, revise, or refine the question. The information literate student describes criteria used to make information decisions and choices.

ACRL IL Framework Correlation: Searching is Strategic
Knowledge Practice: Determine the scope of the question or task required to meet their information needs
ACRL IL Framework Correlation: Research as Inquiry
Knowledge Practice: Formulate questions for research based on information gaps or reexamination of existing, possibly conflicting, information

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Savvy Searcher: Recognizing Bias

After earning this badge, learners will be able to understand the bias inherent in search engines and the need to be objective when conducting an academic search. Finding information from a diverse number of perspectives and sources can only strengthen the final product of your research.

For interested professionals: This badge fills the ACRL Standard Two: The information literate student accesses needed information effectively and efficiently. Performance Indicator 4: The information literacy student refines the search strategy if necessary. Outcomes A, B, and C: The information literate student assesses the quantity, quality, and relevance of the search results to determine whether alternative information retrieval systems or investigative methods should be used. The information literate student identifies gaps in the information retrieved and determines if the search strategy should be revised. The information literate student repeats the search using the revised strategy as necessary. Standard 3: The information literate student evaluates information and its sources critically and incorporates selected information into his or her knowledge base and value system. Performance Indicator 7: The information literate student determines whether the initial query should be revised. Outcome C: Reviews information retrieval sources used and expands to include others as needed.

ACRL  IL Framework Correlation: Research as Inquiry
Knowledge Practice: Employ critical skills to evaluate information; Monitor gathered information and assess for gaps or weaknesses; Effectively resolve conflicting information; Develop directions for future investigations
ACRL IL FrameworkCorrelation: Searching is Strategic
Knowledge Practice: Determine the scope of the question or task required to meet their information needs

Savvy Searcher Bias Assessment Rubric

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