|
Introduction to Search Strategies and Source Evaluation |
Many of us are inclined to accept all sources of information as valid and reliable. Some people would call this being gullible or easily swayed. Others would say that some kind of source evaluation is required before accepting premises or ideas. In college, as well as work and "real life," some sources are more appropriate than others. Writing a research paper is an example of a time when the use of the appropriate sources is important. To excel in an academic environment you must learn how to locate and properly evaluate information and data that you have collected while conducting literature reviews, interviews, or doing other forms of research.
This module will help you to understand basic concepts related to locating and evaluating information. By explaining the different types of sources and the criteria for determining the quality of a source, you will be better prepared to conduct a college-level literature review.
By the time you finish this module you will be able to:
- identify different types of sources and their appropriateness
- use search strategies to locate information/sources
- apply questions to help evaluate sources
- apply criteria and establish the quality of sources
Read the information about Source Evaluation and Search Strategies and complete the activities.
The materials for the iStudy for Success modules were originally developed at the Jack P. Royer Center for Learning and Academic Technologies.
Additional materials were developed and assistance was provided by the University Learning Centers (ULC), University Park.
The ANGEL version of the modules is being administered by TLT. For more information about iStudy for Success modules, please contact tlt@psu.edu.
The Pennsylvania State University ©2004 All rights reserved. Please read the entire license agreement before distributing the modules, and before modifying and sharing the content of the modules. This statement MUST accompany this module and all derivative works.