Thursday, July 15, 2010

The Big 6


After reading about the Big 6 framework, it seems apparent that it is a tool which can facilitate teaching and learning with incorporation of ICTs. Eisenberg, Johnson and Berkowitz (2010) explain that technology should not be taught as a skill on its own. Instead, they believe that it should be integrated into learning experiences and used to teach skills such as problem solving and decision making. With a knowledge of this, the different skills outlined within the Big 6 framework all have some link to Information and Communication Technologies as each step endeavours to incorporate technology in a variety of innovative and educational ways (Eisenberg, Johnson and Berkowitz, 2010).


In my opinion, the Big 6 is an excellent framework for integrating Information and Communication Technologies into the classroom. It has many strengths which include:


  • It is transferable over all subject areas

  • Simple to understand and use

  • Meaningful and engaging

  • Has a focus on life-long learning

  • Links to Productive Pedagogies (Higher Order Thinking in particular)

  • It has many links to the Dimensions of Learning framework such as utilising all senses and acknowledging why information is important (Marzano and Pickering, 2006).

So far, I do not perceive any weaknesses regarding this framework though I do recognise the many opportunities that it can have within the classroom, as mentioned above. I think it would be a wonderful tool to use in planning all KLAs. Pictured above is a concept map showing all of the key points surrounding the Big 6 framework.

References

Eisenberg, M., Johnson, D., & Berkowitz, B. (2010). Information, communications, and technology (ICT) skills curriculum based on the big6 skills approach to information problem-solving. Retrieved from http://moodle.cqu.edu.au/file.php/4033/LMCBig6%20Curriculum_LMC_MayJune2010.pdf

Marzano, R.J., & Pickering D.J. (2006). Dimensions of learning: Teacher’s manual (2nd ed.). Heatherton, VIC: Hawker Brownlow Education

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3 comments:

  1. Pauline WhiteJuly 19, 2010 at 10:09 PM

    Hi Jasmine,

    I totally agree with you and see the great potential in the Big 6 Framework designed by Eisenberg and Berkowitz. The six stages scaffold the learning journey fantastically as students are guided through an inquiry approach. This inquiry approach will suit most KLAs and encourages the attributes of life long learners, as students are required to think, investigate, create, participate, communicate and reflect throughout the journey.

    The Task Definition Stage identifies the task and problems involved and prepares students to continue as they are now clear on the expectations. The Information Seeking Strategies Stage allows students to identify the available resources and solutions through exploration. Stage 3, Location and Access encourages students to identify and use the best sources effectively to gather information. Once a wide range of information is gathered students interact with the material and extract the most relevant information, this is stage 4, Use of Information. Stage 5, Synthesis requires students to organize the gathered information, identify patterns and then present the findings to support the production of a final product. Evaluation occurs in stage 6 as students reflect on effectiveness and efficiency of the products and processes involved with the task.

    After breaking down the stages involved with the Big 6 Framework, I can see a similarity to the TELSTAR Inquiry model we used in SOSE. During this model students were encouraged to;
    -Tune In (Task Definition/ Engage)
    -Explore (Information Seek/ Discover)
    -Look (Locate and access information)
    -Sort (Use Information)
    -Test (Synthesis)
    -Act (Evaluate/ Produce)
    -Reflect (Evaluate).
    I utilized this TELSTAR model for designing a WebQuest that encouraged students to explore the effects of global warming. Therefore I believe the Big 6 Framework could be used in a similar fashion when designing websites for students as it possess similar characteristics to the TELSTAR Model. Let me know what you think.

    Cheers Pauline.

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  2. Jasmine CampsJuly 21, 2010 at 2:59 PM

    Hi Pauline,
    I can clearly see how the TELSTAR model is similar to the Big 6 Framework now that you have highlighted this. Thank you for all of the insight that you have given me. The Big 6 model seems to be very versatile and I believe that it could be used effectively across all KLAs. The simplicity of the model makes it undaunting to use, with each stage being carefully scaffolded.

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  3. JessAugust 23, 2010 at 3:53 AM

    Hey Jasmine,
    I really enjoyed reading your analysis of this framework. You made some really good points about the benefits it could bring to the classroom. This framework will undoubtedly make the technology learning experience more effective for both teachers and students.
    I like how you mention the close links to the dimensions of learning. If used purposefully it would really help students form deep understandings of the content or topic.

    I also think this framework is effective as it gives students purpose and direction. It is so easy for adults, let alone children, to get lost in the overdose of information on the web. This really helps students avoid falling into that trap and instead focus on the intended task.
    Thanks for your thoughts :)

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