Evaluating Sources:
After you have decided on a topic and begun your research, it is important to continually check the sources you are gathering. There are a number of things to watch out for. These things are called evaluation criteria, and they are listed below. If a source does not meet the standards don't use it. If a source is questionable either leave it out or consult your teacher or me. You should check all your sources with the evaluation criteria, but you must be especially careful with websites. Anyone can post information on the internet. The video clip below will give you great advice on how to evaluate websites.
Evaluation Criteria:
- Authority:
Who is the author? What do they know about the subject that makes them a good author for the material? For example, a dog trainer is probably not going to be the best author for a book about the presidents.
- Currency:
What is the publication date? If writing on a current topic the date of the information is very important. This especially true of science and health related topics. Topics older than 10 years should usually be avoided.
- Bias:
Does the source want you to act in a certain way? Does the source want you to buy or donate something? Beware of bias in any material. There may still be good facts, but don't let their interpretation of the facts influence your work.
- Accuracy:
What sources did the author use? Are they up to date? Are they good sources, like books and journals? What links are provided on the website you are using? Are these sites credible?
This information was obtained from: Info Literacy 10 and prior knowledge.
