Evaluating Sources

I Can… Identify criteria for evaluating a source Evaluate a given source using identified criteria Distinguish between a credible and scholarly source Apply evaluation criteria to my own research sources

CARDDS C—credibility A—accuracy R—reliability R—relevance D—date S—sources S—scope and purpose Click the image above to watch a video on evaluating sources.

Questions to consider: Who published the source? A company? University? Government agency? Scholarly journal?  When was the source published? Is the source current or out-of-date for your topic? Is the source a first edition? Is the source a popular magazine or scholarly journal? Is the publication aimed at a specialized or a general audience? Does the source include a bibliography? Is the information covered fact, opinion, or propaganda? Does the source contain bias? Does the information appear to be valid and well-researched, or is it questionable and unsupported by evidence? Are the ideas and arguments advanced more or less in line with other works you have read on the same topic? Does the source extensively or marginally cover your topic? Is the material primary or secondary in nature? Who is the intended audience?

Characteristics of a Scholarly Source Written for a specialized audience (not general public) More difficult to read Often more detailed Written by an expert in the field Edited by experts in the field Article has a bibliography Includes primary sources

Characteristics of a Credible Source The author/website is associated with an educational institution or other reputable organization The author is knowledgeable about the subject of the website The purpose of the website is to inform If the website has ads, the purpose of the ads is to support the website. Information is up to date Content appears to be factual Links are up to date

Websites .com commercial enterprise (usually trying to sell or endorse products)  .gov government agency (usually official government information) .org non-profit organization (often like-minded individuals working for a        common cause, may promote a specific point of view) .edu educational institution (ranges from legitimate university research to        personal student pages) .net network provider (usually provides services to subscribing customers

Evaluating a Source Practice With a partner, evaluate the article entitled “Response to Importation of a Case of Ebola Virus Disease — Ohio, October 2014” List 3 or more criteria you used to evaluate the source Discuss the questions: Is this a credible source? Why/why not? Is this a scholarly source? Why/why not? Be prepared to share with the class

Evaluating Sources Research Application Examine the resources you have gathered in EasyBib Apply the source evaluation criteria Complete the exit ticket Watch the video “Note-taking in EasyBib” Begin taking research notes Remember to evaluate sources as you work!