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Biology 231 - Research Methods

Course-specific guide to position paper assignment

Why Should I Evaluate My Sources?

As a researcher, you will navigate a vast amount of information from a variety of sources, including but not limited to books, journals, and the Internet. Not everything you find is appropriate to use in your research paper.

You should aspire to become an expert on the topic of your choice, as a researcher, so you need to consider whether the information you are finding is reliable, valid, authoritative, relevant, and current.

Quick Questions To Ask Of Every Source

  • Where does the information come from?
  • Is the information supported by evidence?
  • Can the information be verified somewhere else?
  • Does the information seem to be free of bias and emotion?
  • Are there obvious spelling, grammar or presentation errors?

Guide to Evaluating Sources

Evaluating Sources

ALA Resolution

ALA Resolution on Access to Accurate Information (2017)

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