Choose what to use
As a scientist, it is important that you make sure the information you are using for your assessments and study is of a good academic quality.
Read below to find out more about how to identify credible sources to use while you are at University, or select one of our two recommended Evaluation Methods from the left hand menu:
The Dependability Checklist
The SIFT Method
Credible and relevant – choose your information with care
Being able to find credible, trustworthy information both at uni and in the workplace, is an important and challenging task. There is so much information available to us. Critically evaluating the information you find is key to study success. You will also need to choose credible sources in the workplace – you don’t want to give your boss something that turns out to be inaccurate.
So, why do you need to evaluate information?
Click the plus (+) symbols in the image below to discover why evaluating information is important.
Your Task
Watch this 15 second video and then try your evaluation skills with the quick quiz below.
Evaluation Roadblocks - your brain might be working against you!
Be mindful that you yourself have biases and preconceptions. Two common roadblocks that can prevent you from objectively evaluating information are Eco Chambers and Confirmation Bias.
Echo Chambers
We often surround ourselves with information that reflects our own beliefs and opinions. Social Media is a good example of this - we add our friends, follow our favourite news organisations and companies that align with our views - this results in in a stream of information that is perfectly curated for our own beliefs: we don't ever have to see an alternative view.
Watch this video for an overview of Echo Chambers:
Can you think of how you may be immersed in particular Echo Chambers? Keep this in mind when searching for information!
Confirmation Bias
Similar to an Echo Chamber, Confirmation Bias refers to the psychological explanation that our brains are wired to seek out information which supports what we already believe.
Watch this video for an overview of Confirmation Bias:
So my brain is working against me... what can I do?
Critical thinking is key! But there are also some tools you can use to help you evaluate: