25 Introduction
Evaluating Credibility
Module Introduction
This module will teach you how to identify relevant and credible sources that you find on the open web (free Internet websites) and how to distinguish fake news. Relevant, credible sources will meet the information needs of your research project.
It’s important to determine relevance before credibility because if it’s not going to help you answer your research question, or make your argument, then it’s useless to you for this project. When evaluating a website for credibility, there are essential factors to consider. (1)
Learning Outcomes
This module aligns with Learning Outcome 4.
Module Objectives
Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:
- Choose appropriate sources to use for background, exhibit (evidence), argument, and methods.
- Discuss the issue of fake news in regard to evaluating credibility. (1)
Required Readings
Teaching & Learning, Ohio State University Libraries. Choosing & Using Sources: A Guide to Academic Research. (CC BY 4.0.)
Note: External links and videos embedded within Choosing & Using Sources: A Guide to Academic Research are supplemental in nature.
Learning Unit: Evaluating Credibility
Assignments and Learning Activities
- Complete Readings
- Participate in Module 6 Discussion
- Complete Module 6 Quiz
- Complete Evaluating Sources Assignment
