Abstract:
Observations of high school student researchers indicated teenage frustration and apathy toward
conducting quality research. The purpose of this action research was to evaluate an instructional
tool designed to assist students in demonstrating exemplary research skills. Two hundred twenty
students in ten classes participated in a lesson, which covered the use of research guide
worksheets designed according to Eisenberg & Berkowitz's Big Six skills. Instruction was
followed by two hours of guided individual research. Student progress was measured through pre
and post-tests, scoring of the worksheets, an attitudinal survey, and private interviews. With the
use of guides students gathered more information through more sources. Although students did
not like using the guides, they felt that the guides were helpful organizational tools and
confidence builders. Guides will be revised based on the results of the study and will be
incorporated into future research projects in all areas of the curriculum.