Instruction & Research Support at Lavery Library

Exploring a topic & planning ahead...

What information do I need to understand my topic?

• Explore background information on the topic

What's my plan for gathering information?

• Determine the scope of an information need and refine the topic
• Identify who might produce authoritative information on the topic

What information do I need to understand my topic?

• Investigate the evolution of the topic over time

What's my plan for gathering information?

• Determine types of information sources relevant to the topic
• Examine diverse viewpoints and underrepresented perspectives

What information do I need to understand my topic?

• Identify possible gaps in existing research on a topic

What's my plan for gathering information?

• Identify valid source types, including information packaged formally and informally
• Articulate how traditional and emerging processes of creation and dissemination affect information sources in a discipline