This source evaluation method is represented by an acronym for 5 features to look for with online sources.
This method was developed by Sarah Blakeslee as a way to test resources.
Currency- The timeliness of the information.
- Is this information still useful and considered current?
- Has the information ever been disproven?
- Has anything in your source been updated or altered recently?
- Does your research topic rely on new sources, or is old information still current?
Relevance -The importance of the information for your needs.
- How does the information relate to your topic?
- Does the content answer your question or provide clarity?
- Who is supposed to be the target listeners?
- Is this written for scholars, the public, or students?
- Do you think this is a good source to cite for your research?
Authority- The source of the information.
- Are you able to see who wrote the resource?
- What experiences and credibility do the writers have on this topic?
- Who published or sponsored the author's work?
- Is the author a part of any organizations or institutions related to your topic?
Accuracy- The reliability, truthfulness, and correctness of the content.
- Where is the information from?
- What evidence supports their claims?
- Are there errors in the writing?
- Does the grammar and format look correct?
- What is the tone of the resource?
- Do you see clear bias within the text?
- Has this information been reviewed or used as a reference in other sources?
Purpose- The reason the information exists.
- Can you identify the purpose of the information?
- Is the purpose of the author's work and intentions clear?
- Can you identify fact, opinion, and promotional language?
- Is there an objetive point of view?
- Are there any biases?
