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AFRS 3290: Research Methods - Dr. Debra Smith

Evaluating Information Sources

Evaluating Sources

An important component of research is knowing how to evaluate the resources you've found.  The aim of this guide is to give you the tools to determine if your resources are the right ones for your research.  With every type of resource you use, whether it be a search engine, book, article or website, there are five main criteria to keep in mind:

 

1. Authority

Who is the author and/or publisher?

2. Accuracy

How reliable is the information provided?

3. Objectivity

What is the purpose of the resource?

4. Currency

How up-to-date is the resource?

5. Coverage

Does the resource contain information relevant to your topic?