Teaching Internet Research Skills
a seminar presented by Genie Tyburski
COURSE SECTIONS

Introduction

Myths & Misconceptions

Research Starting Points

Evaluative Skills

Hypothetical Research Exercises

Fact-Finding Exercises

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The Virtual Chase

Drexel University,
College of Information Science & Technology
EVALUATIVE SKILLS 
Quality in information comprises several characteristics, including accuracy, scope of coverage, objectivity, timeliness, authority, and verifiability. Take time to recognize it. It could keep you well-informed, prevent you from relying on illicitly edited material, save you money, or preserve your health. It could even save a life.
Evaluating Quality in Information print this chart
Accuracy: factually irrefutable and complete information. Tip: Is there a second reliable source that gives the same information? Is it a peer-reviewed source. Does the publisher use editors and fact checkers?
Scope of Coverage: the extent to which the source explores a topic. Scope of coverage may include a period of time, a geographic region, various aspects of a topic, etc. Tip: Does the source offer information about its scope?
Objectivity: minimum bias with respect to interpretation or analysis of facts. Tip: Is the source trying to persuade you? Who sponsors or publishes the information? What can you discover about their intentions? 
Timeliness: information that is current at the time of publication. Tip: Does the source provide a date for this specific Web page or entry, as opposed to a general site revision date?
Authority: a reliable source of information. Tip: Can you determine the name of the author and publisher? Is the author a recognized expert on the topic? What is the publisher's reputation?
Verifiability: confirmation of the facts or information with a second reliable source. Tip: Does the material cite to its sources of information?

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Introduction | Myths & Misconceptions | Research Starting Points | Evaluative Skills | Hypothetical Research Exercises | Fact-Finding Exercises | Home | Search This Web | Site Map | The Virtual Chase | Drexel

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Created: 11 October 2001
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URL: https://www.virtualchase.com/ResearchSkills/quality3.html
Suggestions: Genie Tyburski, editor [at] virtualchase [dot] com