This document is an update of Focus on Research: A Guide to Developing Students' Research Skills (Alberta Education, 1990). Focus on Research was developed in response to suggestions from Alberta teachers during the implementation of Focus on Learning: An Integrated Program Model for Alberta School Libraries (Alberta Education, 1985). Research, as well as suggestions from teachers and teacher-librarians, indicated that it was time to enhance and rethink the 1990 research process model. Although the essential elements of the Focus on Research model are strong, changes in curriculum, students, technology, professional development, research findings and the world of work all point to the timeliness of this update. Additionally, research and practice point to a need for a deeper consideration of the implications of technology and the implications of the affective nature of inquiry-based learning. With the support from teachers and teacher-librarians across the province, this update brings together 13 years of research, practice and reflection. Colleagues in school librarianship education and research around the world have also supported this work.

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