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HLTH 450: Introduction to U.S. Healthcare and Public Health Policy

Critically Evaluate Information

Critically Evaluating Sources (what do we mean by "sources"?)

For college-level research, you'll want to consider using only the highest-quality information sources you can find. Between the internet and SU’s library, the “best” information can depend on the assignment. Here are some ways to determine the best information sources to lend support to your own research. 

By thinking through and considering the questions being asked under each criteria, you can begin to identify appropriate sources for your assignments.

Currency

  • When was the information published or posted?
  • Has the information been revised or updated?
  • Is the information current or out-of-date for your topic?

Relevance

  • Does the information relate to your topic or answer your question?
  • Who is the intended audience?
  • Is the information at an appropriate level (i.e. not too elementary or advanced for your needs)?
  • Have you looked at a variety of sources before determining this is one you will use? 
  • Would you be comfortable using this source within your research?

Authority

  • Who is the author/publisher/sponsor?
  • Are the author's credentials or organizational affiliations given?
    • What are those credentials or affiliations?
  • What are the author's qualifications to write on the topic?
  • Is there contact information, such as a publisher or email address?

Accuracy

  • Where does the information come from?
  • Is the information supported by evidence?
  • Has the information been reviewed or refereed?
  • Can you verify any of the information in another source or from personal knowledge?
  • Does the language or tone seem unbiased and free of emotion?

Purpose

  • What is the purpose of the information? to inform? teach? sell? entertain? persuade?
  • Do the authors/sponsors make their intentions or purpose clear?
  • Is the information fact? opinion? propaganda?
  • Does the point of view appear objective and impartial?
  • Are there political, ideological, cultural, religious, institutional, or personal biases?