Kody Hanner
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Create a home guide using a research journal
How often do you need to do research on a situation on your homestead? How often can you not remember which text you got your information from last time you encountered a similar issue? Do you wish your kids could be more involved on in homestead decisions or could be trusted to make more educated decisions? The Research Journal could be your answer!
I created a method for my kids several years ago that has them research any concerns that arise on our homestead in the same manner as myself. We then keep all of our research in one place so that we have quick access to our previous research.
How to use the Research Journal Method
I use the Research Journal method with my kids anytime something comes up on the homestead that I am researching myself or that I think the kids would gain something from researching themselves. Often the whole family will be sitting in the living room researching and discussing.
Have you and your child write down the problem or concern that is being researched and then all the information that is important. That way when you are researching there is easy access to the facts. Next, gather research from multiple sources including reputable websites, books, and even well established blogs. Make sure that the the sources are documented and where the information is found. I emphasize the importance of being able to find this information again in the future. Jot down a summary of what is found in the conclusion section. Then finally, once you have come to a decision as a family write down how this problem will be handled in the course of action section. There is room on the back for drawing or attaching pictures.
Benefits of the research journal
Save the research for future use in a place where everyone can find it easily. This has taught my children so many problem solving skills and made it where I can trust my older children to make educated decisions when I am not available to dictate a course of action.
For yourself, when an issue arrives that you want to refer to previous research it is an easy find. You don’t have to scroll through a ton of websites or drag out every homestead book you have ever bought. Plus if you don’t have internet, this is a great off-grid option.
Each time you research a problem, add all the copies to a binder for quick reference in the future!
*Using sheet covers are great when you need this reference outside.
