Lesson 1: Research Assignment Handouts--What Research Says...

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Learning Objective:

After viewing the Project Information Literacy introductory video and reading the full report, Assigning Inquiry: How Handouts for Research Assignments Guide Today's College Students, demonstrate understanding of the common pitfalls of course-related research by articulating elements of a research assignment handout that promote student success.

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"The findings suggest that handouts for academic research assignments provide students with more how-to procedures and conventions for preparing a final product for submission, than guidance about conducting research and finding and using information in the digital age." Assigning Inquiry: How Handouts for Research Assignments Guide Today's College Students, by Project Information Literacy (PIL) Report, July 12, 2010.

Project Information Literacy conducts in-depth studies on the research habits of early adults. Startling statistics from their 2010 report indicate only 14% of research assignment handouts, directed students to use specific library databases (by vendor or file name) and a mere 13% of assignment handouts suggested consulting a librarian for research assistance.

Before reading the full report, watch this short introductory video which was produced by PIL:

Project Information Literacy: Handout Study

As you read the full report, take a few notes about common pitfalls found in many assignment handouts as well as important elements to include in your own research assignment handouts to help students be successful: Assigning Inquiry: How Handouts for Research Assignments Guide Today's College Students.

When you are finished reading and reflecting on the PIL report, proceed to to Assignment 1 where you will be asked to post your responses to the course discussion board.