Skip to Main Content
Library
LibGuides
Eng 151 Evaluation of Sources
Popular and Scholarly Publications
Search this Guide
Search
Eng 151 Evaluation of Sources
This guide provides guidance for evaluating sources of information for academic research. Primary, secondary, scholarly, and popular sources are discussed, as well as tools/rubrics to use when evaluating information sources.
Objectives
The Research Process
Formats of Information
Primary and Secondary Sources
Popular and Scholarly Publications
Peer Review
Peer Review and Empirical Research Articles
Google Searching
Importance of Audience
What is the purpose of the information?
Consider your topic
SCARAB, CRAAP, and Other Tests
The SIFT Method
Practice
Popular Publications
Glossy, colorful, many images.
Extensive advertising.
May be broad-based (general) or focused on a specific topic.
Articles of varying length; often short.
Articles rarely have bibliographies, works cited lists, or reference lists.
Authors may be on staff or freelancers.
Articles are often about current events.
Source: Leatherby Libraries’ FFC Script (2012)
Scholarly Publications
Typically focused on a specific topic.
Usually contain few images and advertisements.
Written for a specific audience (students, professors, researchers).
Articles include bibliographies, works cited lists, or reference lists.
Articles have standard sections (Abstract, Methodology, Results, Discussion, Conclusion or Summary, References).
Authors are scholars in the field; often have a university or college affiliation.
Articles less likely to provide one-sided views or opinions; purpose is to inform and to add to the knowledge base of the subject.
Articles are peer reviewed.
Source: Leatherby Libraries’ FFC Script (2011)
<<
Previous:
Primary and Secondary Sources
Next:
Peer Review >>