Consider a Source's Evidence: Is it Accurate & Balanced?
The evidence provided by a source-it's information, opinions, and ideas-will tell you a great deal about its reliability and usefulness. As you evaluate a source, consider whether the evidence is carefully put together, complete and up to date.
Consider the thesis, if any, and whether it is supported or defended by the presentation of credible evidence. Ask whether the argument or analysis is convincing. If the source seems slipshod, or leaves several important questions unanswered, you might do better to look for another source.
To evaluate the evidence in a source, ask yourself the following questions:
- What is the author's main point?
- How much and what kind of evidence supports that point?
- How persuasive is the evidence? Does it support the argument?
- Is there any questionable or misleading logic and reasoning?
- Can you offer credible arguments contrary to the evidence?
Working with Field Sources: When working in the field, ask similar questions to those already mentioned regarding the evidence provided and the credibility of its sources. Ask yourself:
- When interviewing someone or attending a public lecture, are the responses provided to your questions consistent with those provided to others?
- Does the speaker or person being interviewed provide corroborative evidence supporting the claims being made?
- When analyzing the results of a questionnaire, are the respondent's answers consistent, serious, and honest?
- When you observe a particular event or setting, do the people involved know that they are being observed? People often change their behavior in those circumstances.