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Language of Research

Evaluating Resources: Critical Review

The Purpose of Resource Evaluation
Not all information is equally valuable for a specific purpose or completion of a specific project. Information from both print and non-print sources must be carefully evaluated to determine its usefulness in completing a research project or filling an information need. The World Wide Web is often an important source of information for assignments and research papers, and it is also important to develop skills in selection and critical evaluation of the sites you visit.

Practicing this evaluation process will keep your work focused, save you time, and eventually become second nature. Also, consider your purpose as you search for information – are you seeking entertainment, opinion, or factual information from a credible source?

Consider the following questions when gathering information:

Source and Authority
Who wrote, created or published the information?
Can you clearly identify the credentials of the author or publisher?
Is the author or publisher of the web page affiliated with an established institution or organization?
Is contact information for the author or producer provided?
Can you identify a probable bias of the author or organization?
Are sources acknowledged, such as excerpted or reprinted articles?
Can the information be verified through bibliographies or footnotes?

Scope, Content, and Objectivity
What is the scope or coverage of the information presented?
How well does the information address your topic?
Is the resource comprehensive, brief, or unique?
What is the purpose of the source or Website - research, marketing, information, a personal Website, or advocacy for a specific cause?
Is there a bias that the authors are promoting?
Is the material presented as original information, or is it a secondary source?

Timeliness and Currency
When was the information published or the Web page created?
How current or up-to-date is the information?
Is the Web page updated or revised on a regular basis?
Is the information timely or still valid for your topic?
Does the resource demonstrate currency and stability by providing a contact person, e-mail address, and regular site maintenance?