[2] Search Summary
Search summary is a frame for creating records of researched information according to the [2] Dialectic systems shape of Systematics. The frame attempts to hold both what the searcher wants to find and what the searcher is actually finding in purposeful creative tension until the research process reaches eventual synthesis: a new realization, a confirmation of a theory, an innovative idea, etc.
The basic elements of Search Summary are:
Origin: My initial question / problem
Explain briefly what is the larger question or problem motivating your research. This could also be a short description of a project requiring the research.
Alpha: What you’d like to search for
Include a description of what you’re going to attempt to find including keywords, query strings, and potential places you will look.
Beta: What you found
List the source(s) (with reference and/or links) and what you the value you think it provides:
- How close was the source(s) to what you were looking for?
- What do you think is the reliability for the source(s) and the quality of the info?
- How readily usable is the information, or will it require work to be usable?
Synthesis: What’s your next step?
Research, by definition, is always approaching a synthesis of some sort, but once it is achieved research is over: you only look for something until you find it. Describe what you think your next step is. Will you keep looking? Make a note of what you’ll try next time to find what you’re looking for. Did you find something of value? How will you use it? Did you complete your research? What is your next step?
Applications
Simple Search Summary
Write the following on a note card, notebook page, or short post on a blog or forum:
- Write 1 or 2 sentences describing your question, problem, or project.
- List your source or sources with references and/or links and write notes on its value using the questions above as a guide.
- Write 1 or 2 sentences on your next steps (see above).