Welcome to the 4-Step Strategy for Evaluating Online Sources. In this module, you learn how to take four critical steps to evaluate online sources and use reliable sources for college research and for making informed decisions. To begin, review the information under the Four Steps found below.
Learning Outcome
This Learning Module can help you:
differentiate a high-quality online source from a low-quality source
find more reliable sources for class projects or discussions
employ lateral reading and critical thinking skills for making better decisions
incorporate reflective practices and be more open-minded in engaging diverse perspectives
increase your confidence in navigating a complex online information environment
The first step is to check and identify six quality indicators of an online source to get our first impression.
The second step is to do more investigation with the CRAAP (currency, relevance, authority, accuracy, and purpose) Test.
The third step is to further evaluate sources through critical thinking and lateral reading.
The fourth step is to think critically about our own biases and perspectives through reflective practice.
Let’s recap what we’ve learned in the 4-step strategy for online source evaluation.
This module is designed and created by:
Grace Liu, Assistant Professor, Business Librarian at FHG Library
Amy Pajewski, Assistant Professor, Student Success Librarian at FHG Library
Rachel M. McMullin, Professor, Humanities Librarian at FHG Library
is advised by
Tom Pantazes, Instructional Designer, Office of Digital Learning & Innovation
is sponsored by
The West Chester University (WCU) Committee for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT) Grant