 
1.
Do Initial Planning
2. Choose
a Topic
3. Do
Initial Search
4. Refine
topic
5. Identify
key sources
6.
Study key sources
7.
Integrate
8. Present
findings
Synthesis
Critical
Thinking 
Creativity
References
|
Critically
Reflect on Readings
Our culture emphasizes action, and we often put a high priority on “getting
the job done.” We do not often allow time to reflect. But reflection is
well worth the time, because it can yield valuable insights.
For each key source, think about
-
the frame of reference or set of assumptions the source is working from
-
the arguments and logic the source uses
-
your reactions to what you read
Reflection involves questioning assumptions, including our own. This requires
courage and humility, because it includes an awareness that our own perspective
is limited and that we may be wrong.
As Adler and Van Doren point out, you must be able to understand something
before you can judge it fairly (1972, pp. 142-143). If you prematurely
judge something, you may be rejecting something not on its merits, but
based on your on prejudices. You may also prevent yourself from learning
something new.
This does not mean to accept what you read without question. Adler and
Van Doren point out that “to agree is just as much an exercise in critical
judgment as to disagree. You can be just as wrong in agreeing as in disagreeing.”
(1972, p. 143).
You may or may not change your opinion, but reflection will help you
develop your own ideas. You are building a strong basis for developing
an original piece of work that draws on several perspectives.
-
Write down thoughts that arise out of your critical reflection about each
key source.
Top of Page
Organize
notes and ideas
Compare the information and ideas of different sources as they relate
to your topic. In what different ways do the sources address the questions
you asked yourself about your topic?
See what themes emerge from your comparisons, and organize your notes
around these themes or issues. This organization is yours. It will make
your research unique and thus valuable.
Once again, write down any good ideas that occur to you as you work.
Organize these notes along with your other notes.
Note:
For an in-depth discussion of comparing different authors, see chapter
20 of How to Read a Book (1972) by Adler and Van Doren.
-
Top of Page
Step 7 Outcomes
-
Notes from critical reflection
-
Source notes organized around themes or issues
Top of Page
Health Sciences Library /
HSL Instructional Modules
Evaluating Online Information |