Embedded Files
Research records
Research records
Detailed records are evidence of developing the research. Records can be presented in various ways. Refer to the Folio exemplars for ideas. For each source, the records should contain the following:
Source details - this is important to reference in the outcome
Analysis and evaluation of the source eg key knowledge, usefulness in answering the question, evaluation of the credibility
Ethical considerations
Planning - reflection on next steps in progressing the research
Links to the capability where relevant
As the research progresses the records should also contain:
Reflections on connections and links between the sources ie areas of agreement and disagreement
Emerging key findings
Identification of key challenges/opportunities and decisions made in response
Although it is easy to show evidence of developing your understanding of the topic, you also need to address skill development. Skills may be topic or research-related. Include comments about skill development wherever appropriate in your research records.
Areas of skill development could include:
Locating information eg using databases, library
Critically analysing information eg CRAAP test
Referencing appropriately
Interview preparation and application
Survey preparation and application
Using technology eg Google Docs, Google Forms
Locating information
Locating information
Where possible, use a variety of sources rather than just websites. Books and articles can often be more credible. Start with general and simple sources first when trying to gain an understanding of the topic. Use more difficult or complex resources as the research develops. Note that:
Secondary source research should be completed before any primary research such as surveys.
Sources could include primary research e.g. questionnaire, interview. The results of primary research should be analysed like any other source type.
Resources
Resources
Barr Smith Library - search the collection, search databases (Login username 'student' password 'student')
refseek - An extensive reference directory covering areas such as search engines, educational videos etc
Barr Smith Library - University of Adelaide
Evaluating information
Evaluating information
Apply the CRAAP test to sources used. This technique can be used on a variety of sources including documents, websites, interviews, visual sources, books, articles etc record your observations about the sources you use in your research records.
Key terms
Credibility - is the information trustworthy? Latin origin meaning 'believable.'
Validity - from Latin meaning 'strong.'
Reliability - in research, refers to the degree to which an assessment tool produces consistent results.
Cross reference - similar information can be located in more than one source.
Common misconceptions
Old information is not useful or trustworthy
Primary sources are better than secondary sources
If the same information is found in more than one place it must be true
Detecting bias in a source
Background - who created the source and for what purpose?
Balance - is it one-sided?
Language - is emotive or persuasive language used.
CRAAP Test
CRAAP Test
Currency
Currency
How old is the info? When was it created?
Does the age of the info matter in relation to your topic?
Has the info been revised or updated?
Relevance
Relevance
Does the info relate to your topic?
Is the level of info appropriate eg not too simple or not too advanced?
Have you looked at a variety of info?
Have you completed background reading? Do you have some understanding of the topic?
Which parts of the source are most relevant to your research?
Authority
Authority
Who or what is the author?
Are the credentials/qualifications of the author included? If an internet source, always check the ‘About us’ section or other author info.
Does the language accuracy and expression seem consistent with the author/creator?
Is the info referenced? Is there a bibliography or links to other sources?
Which country does it originate from?
Accuracy
Accuracy
Does the info seem consistent with other sources?
How detailed is the info?
Where does the info come from?
Can you verify the info? Does it seem consistent with what you already know?
Does the language seem professional and accurate or are there errors?
Does the info seem balanced or one-sided?
Are there errors eg spelling, grammar, typos?
Purpose
Purpose
What is the overall purpose of the source eg inform, persuade, entertain, sell?
What is the tone of the info eg emotive? What type of language is used?
Does the info seem factual, opinionated, objective, impartial?
Who do you think the info is created for ie intended audience?
If an internet resource check the domain eg .com, .org, .edu, .gov
Resources
Resources
Academic note-taking and website evaluation template - SACE document
Evaluating online sources - SACE document
Evaluating research sources - SACE document
The seven deadly sins of statistical misinterpretation, and how to avoid them - The Conversation, March 29, 2017
Three strategies to help students navigate dodgy online content - The Conversation, October 17, 2017
How to spot a fake review: you’re probably worse at it than you realise, The Conversation, August 12, 2019
Understanding bias
Understanding bias
Barrie's bias busters - interactive activity about bias in the news. Race the clock in this series of challenges to bust up bias wherever you spot it.
Bias - video 13 mins. Bias is not always obvious. Whether you are consuming the news or taking an intergalactic journey, it's important to know how to spot an agenda.
Google Sites
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