Research is a process rather than something that happens naturally. The best researchers develop a process that allows them to fully comprehend the ideas they are researching and also turn data into information that is usable for whatever the end purpose may be.
- Form a question: Research should be targeted; develop a question you want to answer before progressing any further.
- Decide on resources: Not every resource is good for every question/problem. Identify the resources that will work best for you.
- Gather raw data: First, gather information in its rawest form; do not attempt to make sense of it at this point.
- Sort the data: After you've gathered information, decide what is important and how you will use it. Not all data will be reliable or worthwhile.
- Process information: Turn the data into usable information. This processing step may take longer than the rest combined. This is where you see your data and information shape into something exciting.
- Create a final piece: This is where you write a research paper, create a project or build a graph or other visual piece with the information you've gathered.
- Evaluate: Look back on the process. Where did you experience success and failure? Did you find an answer to your question?
Source: The Resilient Educator: https://bit.ly/2xQ2xI6