Research

Research is an important part of what we learn in library.

When doing research, please remember the following:

• Use research-based resources for academic research.

• Google is NOT a resource, it is a search engine. Google is also in the business of making money, not in the business of finding you the best information. Please make sure you are evaluating this information carefully.

• Wikis can be changed by anyone, anytime, so be careful. They can be a jumping off point, but not the finish line.

• Evaluate your resources, especially if you are forced to Google due to limited information in a research-based resource.

  • Currency--How recently was the website published or updated?

  • Relevance--Does the website directly support your assignment?

  • Authority--Is the author an expert in their field?

  • Accuracy--Double check the information with another source. Does the website include references, bibliography, or "works cited"?

  • Purpose--Why was the website created? Is there any bias?