Is it Clear: A Guide to Source Evaluation by Drake Memorial Library at SUNY Brockport and is licensed under CC BY 4.0
As part of the third step in Information Literacy, when choosing sources, it is important for you to evaluate each one to ensure that you have the best quality source for your project.
More information about Information Literacy.
Here are questions for you to consider when evaluating your sources:
CREDIBILITY, AUTHORITY, RELIABILITY, and VALIDITY
A Guide to Source Evaluation
Credibility - refers to the reliability and trustworthiness of the source from which the information is obtained. It is essential to consider whether the author or publisher of the information has the necessary expertise and background to provide accurate and truthful content.
Language - involves the clarity and appropriateness of the language used in the information. An effective piece of information should be presented in a way that is easily understandable by the audience.
Audience - refers to the specific group of people for whom the information is intended. Understanding the target audience can help in evaluating whether the content is suitable and relevant to their needs and interests.
Relevance - pertains to how closely the information aligns with your specific needs or questions. In evaluating information, it is important to assess whether it contributes meaningfully to your understanding or decision-making process.
Is it Clear: A Guide to Source Evaluation by Drake Memorial Library at SUNY Brockport and is licensed under CC BY 4.0
Is the information too vague or too specific?
Relevance: Evaluate the tool's relevance to your specific needs and objectives. Consider whether the tool aligns with your goals and addresses your challenges effectively.
Ease of Use: Assess the tool's usability and user experience. Evaluate how easy it is to navigate the tool, perform tasks, and access its features. Consider factors such as intuitiveness, accessibility of functionalities, and clarity of instructions.
Assessing DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility): Evaluate the tool's performance in promoting diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion. Consider whether the tool incorporates diverse perspectives, mitigates biases, and ensures equitable outcomes for all users, regardless of their background or abilities.
Currency: Examine the tool's currency in terms of its technology, data, and methodologies. Assess whether the tool utilizes the latest advancements in AI research, incorporates up-to-date datasets, and follows current best practices in generative modeling.
Transparency & Accuracy: Evaluating the tool's transparency and accuracy in its operations and decision-making process. Assess whether the tool provides clear insights into how it generates outputs, handles data, and makes predictions, as well as whether it consistently delivers precise and correct information. Look for transparency in the algorithms, data source, model limitations, and potential biases that may affect its performance.
What are the sources of information THEY used?
Fake news and false information is widely spread on the Internet. How can you tell if what you are reading is real? Here are some sources to help: