We make better decisions and construct more convincing arguments when we understand the quality of the information we're using. In an academic context our ability to create knowledge and meaning depends on our ability to analyze and interpret information with precision.
To evaluate information is to analyze information from a critical perspective. We also need to consider the relationships among different sources and how they work together to form “conversations” of diverse perspectives surrounding a particular research question.
The questions that follow can help you think through the evaluation of information sources. Keep in mind that evaluation is not simply about determining whether a source is “reliable” or “not reliable.” Instead, it's more useful to consider the degree to which a source is reliable for a given purpose. The primary goal of evaluation is to understand the significance and value of a source in relation to other sources and your own thinking on a topic.
Source: "Evaluating Information Sources: Home", University of Louisville, https://library.louisville.edu/ekstrom/evaluation
This is a list of questions to help you evaluate the information you find. Some criteria will be more or less important based on the situation or need.
Who is the author(s)?
What are the author’s credentials or organizational affiliations?
Is the author qualified to write on the topic?
Is there contact information, such as an email address?
Does the url indicate anything about the author source? (.edu, .gov, .org, .net)
What is the purpose of the information? To inform, explain, persuade, sell, or entertain?
Who is the intended audience?
Is the information fact, opinion, or propaganda?
Does the point of view appear objective and impartial?
Is the information accurate?
Who is the publisher/sponsor/source?
Does the company have any editorial biases?
Where was the information published?
What language was it published?
What medium was it published?
When was the information published?
Has the information been revised or updated?
Does your topic require current information or will older information work as well?
Has anything changed in the field of study since it was published?
Does the information relate to your topic or field of research?
Is the information at an appropriate level for your needs?
Have you looked at a variety of sources before determining this is the one you will use?
Would you be comfortable citing this source in your research?
Is the information supported by evidence through a References section?
Who was cited - other experts in the field or popular articles?
Does the author fairly represent the information from their cited sources?
Explore. Discover. Create.
24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90263 Phone: 310.506.7273Copyright © 2022 Pepperdine University