Often we do a combination of all three. When we do research, we go to other sources to find what they already know about our subject. Find out what other people in the class know about your project or topic. It is surprising what other people know when the subject is raised. Go to that person and ask questions.
Someone knows guns better than others.
Someone knows tanning better than others. Someone knows winter travel better than others. Elders are the best resources. Libraries, magazines, internet etc. These have many answers, but might be lacking in traditional Alaskan information.