Internet Assignment 5

When you search for information, you're going to find lots of it . . . but is it good information? You will have to determine that for yourself, and the CRAAP Test can help. The CRAAP Test is a list of questions to help you evaluate the information you find. Different criteria will be more or less important depending on your situation or need. Evaluation Criteria C urrency: The timeliness of the information.  When was the information published or posted?  Has the information been revised or updated?  Does your topic require current information, or will older sources work as well? Are the links functional? R elevance: The importance of the information for your needs.  Does the information relate to your topic or answer your question?  Who is the intended audience?  Is the information at an appropriate level (i.e. not too elementary or advanced for your needs)?  Have you looked at a variety of sources before determining this is one you will use?  Would you be comfortable citing this source in your research paper? A uthority: The source of the information.  Who is the author/publisher/source/sponsor?  What are the author's credentials or organizational affiliations?  Is the author qualified to write on the topic?  Is there contact information, such as a publisher or email address? Does the URL reveal anything about the author or source?

examples: .com .edu .gov .org .net A ccuracy: The reliability, truthfulness and correctness of the content.  Where does the information come from?  Is the information supported by evidence?  Has the information been reviewed or refereed?  Can you verify any of the information in another source or from personal knowledge?  Does the language or tone seem unbiased and free of emotion?

 Are there spelling, grammar or typographical errors? P urpose: The reason the information exists.

 What is the purpose of the information? Is it to inform, teach, sell, entertain or persuade?  Do the authors/sponsors make their intentions or purpose clear?  Is the information fact, opinion or propaganda?  Does the point of view appear objective and impartial?  Are there political, ideological, cultural, religious, institutional or personal biases?

9/17/10 Evaluating Information – Applying the CRAAP Test Meriam Library  California State University, Chico Key:  indicates criteria is for Web 