Core Academic Study Skills Framework

Introductory

• Understand the difference between a primary and secondary source
• Identify strengths and weaknesses of source material
• Evaluate the quality of information (print and electronic) using criteria such as bias, authority, currency, validity, etc.
• Distinguish between good quality and other sources
• Recognise the limitations of Google and Wikipedia for the purposes of academic study
• Awareness of Bibliometrics

Intermediate

• Identify your information gap – be aware of what you don’t yet know
• Seek multiple perspectives and viewpoints during information gathering and assessment
• Recognise the choices you have made in your use of sources, and understand how currency, relevance, accuracy, authority, reliability and purpose of these sources has influenced your decisions
• Understand the importance of the peer review process for journal articles
• Compare and contrast the evidence, assessing any gaps or weaknesses
• Use bibliometrics to select & evaluate information
• Have a basic understanding of the publishing process & the currency of information

Advanced

• Clearly define the scope of a research question and apply relevant criteria to filter large quantities of information
• Use advanced methods, such as a systematic review to answer your research question
• Follow the development of an area of research, comparing and contrasting evidence, and synthesising information to form connections and build your own arguments
• Articulate and justify the decisions you have made in choosing and using sources appropriate to your information needs
• Reflect on the research process, assess whether the information need has been met, and redefine as necessary