How do I know if what I found is quality information?

Evaluating information involves critical thinking, much like determining if the new washer you would want to buy will meet your needs. In the washer example, you might be thinking... Is the brand name reliable and well-known? Do I think that this model will be able to hold the amount of clothes I want to wash? If it were to break down, would support be available and would I be able to get the parts I needed to have it fixed? You might also care about the design of the washer, and ask 'Does it go with the dryer I already have?

Although this example doesn't ask the same types of questions we will be asking ourselves when looking at your sources, it is an illustration of critical thinking and critical questioning. This habit of reflection will help you to know in your research whether or not you should stop (because you have what you need) or if you should keep going. Answering these mental questions will also help you to adjust your search by recognizing if you need to be looking for something different that would better meet your needs.

Activity:Your Definitions of Evaluation Criteria

In your journal, write these five words and what you think each one means. We will use these terms to evaluate different aspects of the resources you have found for your research. Think of each one in relationship to information.

1. What does currency mean? (This does not refer to money.) 2. What is relevancy? 3. What does authority mean? 4. What does accuracy mean to you? 5. What is a purpose?

Unit Three Learning Objectives

After this unit, you'll be able to:

Identify stages of the CRAAP model: currency, relevancy, authority, accuracy, and purpose
Evaluate Internet resources based on the criteria and your information needs

Complete the following activities in the final lesson.

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Forward to Lesson Five: Evaluating Your Resources