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Evaluating Sources
Evaluating Sources
It is important to understand that not all information is equal. We need to be selective and use critical thinking when it comes to the information sources we use. Just because you find it in print or online, do not assume that it is accurate or reliable. It is shown that students have difficulty determining fact from opinion and need help sharpening their critical thinking skills when using and evaluating information sources (Hough 2011; OECD 2011).
CRAAP Criteria for Evaluating Information Sources
The CRAAP anagram is an effective way to help students remember source evaluation criteria. It is important to point out, however, that the anagram does not list the criteria in order of importance. Relevance and Accuracy, for example, are undoubtedly more important criterion than Currency.
What is the PURPOSE of the source?
Is it to inform, to present opinions, to report research, entertain or to sell a product? For what audience is it intended - general public? children? scholars?
Is it RELEVANT or suitable for my purpose?
Is the information relevant to the question at hand? Is the information suitable to my age and academic level? Is the depth of coverage adequate?
Who is the AUTHOR?
Are the author's qualifications or experience given? Are they an expert in their field? What credentials or special knowledge does he/she have? Does the author reference their information sources? Does the author have a certain bias*?
*Bias means being favorable to something because you have a special interest in it. For example, if someone asks you where is the best place to get a hamburger, you might recommend 'Burger Joint' because you work there. So because you work there you have bias. Or you may tell them to go somewhere else, because you really don't like working at 'Burger Joint'. Bias can work either way and means you cannot provide a fair and impartial opinion or point of view.
Who is the publisher?
Is it published by an academic institution such as: a university? Is the information published by a government agency? By a large commercial publisher? By a non-profit organisation or a business? The publisher may give clues as to the reliability and/or bias of the information presented. What does the URL tell you?
How CURRENT or up to date is this information?
Are the statistics and facts cited in the source up to date? Is it current? Is there a "last updated" date shown on the web page?
Is the information ACCURATE? Should I believe this information? What authority does it have?
Does it contain documented facts or personal opinion? Is bias evident? Are there any footnotes, bibliographies, or lists of references that let you check the accuracy of statistics or factual information? Is the documentation from published sources or personal webpages?
For more information on evaluating sources, visit the websites below:
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