What are some of the important questions should ask to determine whether the information they receive is genuine?

Here are some questions to guide you through the process of critical evaluation of information sources:

Authority: Who created the information?

• Who is the creator/author/source/publisher of the information? What are the author's credentials or affiliations?
• Is the author's expertise related to the subject? Are they an authority on the topic through education, experience, or expertise in the field?
• Whose voices/viewpoints are not being heard?

Accuracy: How accurate is the information?

• Was the information reviewed by others before being published? Does it contain spelling mistakes and grammatical errors?
• What citations or references support the author's claims?
• Is it fact or opinion? Do the authors leave out important facts or alternative perspectives?

Argument: What are the author's claims?

• What is the author's position?
• What reasons does the author give to support their position?
• Are there any flaws in the author's logic?
• Do you agree or disagree with the author's argument or perspective? Why?
• What is your position on this topic?
• What evidence (i.e. research) can you provide to support your position?

Self-Awareness: Check yourself

• Examine your own perspective and ensure you are seeking out information that represents alternative perspectives and worldviews.
• Ensure you are not seeking or favouring sources that only confirm your existing beliefs (avoid confirmation bias).
• Get uncomfortable. Read from sources across the spectrum (even if you do not agree with such sources); this will help ensure you are aware of the various sides of a debate/issue.

Relevance: Does the source satisfy your information need?

• Is the information related to your topic? Does it help you better understand your topic?
• Is the information at an appropriate depth or level for your assignment?

Timeliness: How current is the information?

• When was the information created, published or updated?
• Is it recent enough to be relevant to your topic or discipline? Sometimes you are required to use recently published material; sometimes you must use historical documents.

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