Recommended websites
There are many sources for Economics information available on the web. In addition to the below have a look at the Grey literature page of this guide. Use the CRAAP tool below to assist in evaluating the information you locate.
- Key internet links on EconomicsResource guide from the Parliamentary Library of Australia containing Australian and International economic information.
- ANZ ResearchThis resource provides a wealth of information on Australian and international economies and markets, including analysis and forecasts of key industries.
- IDEAS (Research Papers in Economics)The largest bibliographic database dedicated to Economics and available freely on the Internet. Based on RePEc, it indexes over 2,100,000 items of research, including over 1,900,000 that can be downloaded in full text.
- RFE: Resources for EconomistsSponsored by the American Economic Association. This online guide collates resources from around the web including data, dictionaries, news, jobs, conferences and more.
Evaluating Resources
When using resources it is important to know the source of the information. To evaluate, use a tool like the CRAAP test.
When was the information published or posted?
When was the information published or posted?Consider:
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How current is the information?
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Do you need current information, older sources or both?
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When was the resource last updated?
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If there are references and links, how current are they
Does it relate to my topic and needs?
Does it relate to my topic and needs?Consider:
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Who is the intended audience?
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Does it help me answer a question or solve a problem?
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Will it lead to other information?
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Does it provide evidence for or support my ideas?
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What does it add to my work?
Who is the source of the information?
Who is the source of the information?Consider:
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Who is the author, publisher, source or sponsor of the information?
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Are the authors' and/or publishers' affiliations clear?
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What is their reason for publishing the material?
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For websites, does the domain of the URL tell you anything about the author or source (.gov, .edu, .com, .org)
Is the information true and accurate?
Is the information true and accurate?Consider:
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Where does the information come from?
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Is the information supported by evidence?
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Can that evidence be verified if necessary?
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Are there spelling, grammar or other errors?
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Has the information been reviewed or refereed?
Why does the information exist?
Why does the information exist?Consider:
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What is the purpose of the information?
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Is the information factual or opinion?
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Is the information biased?
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Is the information to inform, teach, sell, entertain or persuade?
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Is the website sponsored or influenced by advertising revenue?