Final answer:
An information literate student begins a research project by determining what information is needed. They gather and critically evaluate source material from diverse media and use tools and methodologies like the SIFT method to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Step-by-step explanation:
Initial Steps in Information Literacy for Research Projects
When starting a research project, an information literate student begins by identifying what information is needed. Prior to evaluating information sources, using appropriate information, and knowing how to access the information, a student must determine the scope of the research. This involves generating initial questions that guide the entire research process. Gathering materials from various sources such as books, websites, and journals is crucial, but the first step is always to clarify your research needs.
Evaluation and Gathering Information
After determining what information is needed, the student must gather information from a mix of primary, secondary, and tertiary sources, depending on the project scope. These sources can include all forms of media, like videos and peer-reviewed journals. As the process unfolds, the evaluation of sources using critical thinking skills is essential to ensure accuracy and reliability. The SIFT method may be applied to fact-check and evaluate online sources effectively.
Finally, an information literate student would use various tools to locate general reference works and other relevant sources, ensuring that source materials are used to support their own words and ideas authentically. Adopting a stance of epistemic humility is recommended, acknowledging the limitations and fragility of human knowledge.