In Search of a Teenage Research Tool

Abstract: Observations of high school student researchers indicated teenage frustration and apathy toward conducting quality research. The purpose of this action research was to evaluate an instructional tool designed to assist students in demonstrating exemplary research skills. Two hundred twenty students in ten classes participated in a lesson, which covered the use of research guide worksheets designed according to Eisenberg & Berkowitz’s Big Six skills. Instruction was followed by two hours of guided individual research. Student progress was measured through pre and post-tests, scoring of the worksheets, an attitudinal survey, and private interviews. With the use of guides students gathered more information through more sources. Although students did not like using the guides, they felt that the guides were helpful organizational tools and confidence builders. Guides will be revised based on the results of the study and will be incorporated into future research projects in all areas of the curriculum