The research you need for academic papers and other projects requires the use of databases and other online resources to compile information into a bibliography. This bibliography, or list of references, will be materials such as books, journals articles, and Internet sites on your topic.
No matter what the format of your selected information resources, it is necessary to look at them with an evaluative and critical eye. Below is a checklist of criteria which can be used to evaluate print and electronic resources.
Authority
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Who wrote it?
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What are the author's credentials?
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Web pages are frequently not signed. If not, consider the next point.
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Is it backed up by an authoritative source, such as government agency, professional association, or education institution?
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In academic research, the scholarly or peer-reviewed journal is the standard for authoritative information. More information about scholarly journals.
Purpose
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What is the purpose of the web site or publication?
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Does it have an agenda? What is it?
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Who is the intended audience?
Accuracy
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Is the information accurate? Can it be verified? Be careful with this one. Things can be picked up and spread from publication to publication (or even easier from web site to web site).
Coverage
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Does it cover the topic?
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Consider all points of view?
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Is it up to date, representing the latest research and information?
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Once again, who is the intended audience? Coverage of a subject will differ if the intended audience is for children or adults, the average reader or a scholarly audience.
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Remember that academic resources are needed to cover your topic.
Documentation
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Is there any documentation?
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If not, where did they get the information they are providing to you?
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Does that information have authority, purpose, accuracy, coverage and documentation?