Not all resources, books, articles, websites, videos, etc., are appropriate for all papers. When searching for sources and/or choosing sources for your paper here are some things to keep in mind:
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- Authority: What are the authors' qualification? Are they writing in their field of expertise? Who is the publisher or sponsor of the organization or website? Can the information on the "About Us" pages be verified? Are the postings signed?
Look for: "Profile," About Us" links
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- Objectivity: Are there signs of bias and/or subjectivity? What is the purpose, to inform or pursuade? Are alternative or opposing views or arguments represented? Are there major donors or are funding sources identified?
Look for: "Mission," "About Us," "Profile," "History" links
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- Accuracy: Are the arguments or assertions believable? Are they backed up with credible evidence and citations?
Look for: "Comments" on social media sites
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- Intended Audience: Is the content directed at a particular targeted audience (general public, practicitioners, scholars)? What is the complexity of the language and vocabularly?
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- Currency: Is the site regularly updated and does it present current relevant information?
- In General: Does the infomation provided answer your question or back up your thesis? Does it raise other relevant questions?
More on evaluating resources
