Introduction to Evaluating Information

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As a student, how do you determine if the information you are receiving is credible? Credible sources of information are reliable sources that provide information that everyone can believe to be true. To make sure your research is meaningful and substantive, you’ll need to develop the ability to determine your sources' credibility. This module will cover the criteria you’ll need to look for, and useful strategies, to help ensure that the information you’re using is reliable and accurate and represents a range of perspectives.

Learning Goals

After completing this module, students will be able to:

• Consider what credibility means in different information contexts 
• Select and apply a strategy for evaluating any information source
• Know where to go for additional help.

Reflect

Think of a time when you had to find information to make a decision or get something done (e.g. choose a new cell phone plan, fix a flat tire on your bicycle, or make sourdough bread). Who, or what resources, did you consult? If you consulted a number of sources, how did you choose the best one for your needs? Chances are, you weighed each source for their subject expertise, trustworthiness, and relevance. You’ll apply these same skills to academic sources in this module.