1. Evaluating Sources

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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 Is the source current or out-of-date for your topic?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?

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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!