Source Evaluation

• Require students to locate different levels and types of research information. Encourage use of Academic Databases and Alternative Databases
• Stipulate types of sources for assignments. A general directive to use five sources will typically result in students using only unevaluated online sources from commercial search engines. For an assignment that details source evaluation and variety, see page 2 of this example from the Dean’s Book Course at Commonwealth College.
• For user-friendly guides to teaching research skills, see Research Tools from the Office of Research Literacy
• Research Tools include Library Database Research Guide, an introduction to academic databases, and Resources for Researchers, a series of materials for teaching skills including source evaluation and documentation.