We live in the information age - there is a lot of stuff out there. The 'container' that we receive information in can give us a lot of information and context including who wrote it, why it was written, what is the writing style, who the audience is, and so much more. Being aware of the types of sources you use - will make you a more informed reader and researcher. Below is a list of types of some types of content:
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UFV Library and other libraries have created content about types of sources - check out the links and resources below to learn more.
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Research Tip! |
Read your assignment instructions to see if your instructor has specified certain source types that you can or cannot use for your project. |
One way your instructor may talk about sources is by separating them into primary or secondary source categories. This is a common practice for history.
Primary = the source/information was written at the time of a specific event or by a person who witnessed the event. This provides a Sources may include diaries, memoirs, photographs, artwork, and even news articles written during that time
Secondary = the source/information was written after the event occurred and typically provides an analysis based on primary works. Sources may include books and articles.
Check out the resources below to learn more about these types of sources.
As the author and researcher for your work, it is up to you to choose what sources to include in your assignment. Depending on the source you are looking at - you may evaluate the quality or usefulness based on different factors. There are numerous evaluation rubrics or tools you can use. See below for some options.
1. SIFT Method (Mike Caufield)
2. Evaluating Information Rubric (University of Toronto)
3. RADAR (Jane Mandalios)
What similarities do these tools have? What are the differences? Do you think they will be effective in helping you choose resources?
Many of the evaluation tools come from a western perspective that privileges a western scholarly publication system. This means that certain communities, perspectives, and ways of knowing have not been included in research or scholarship. The intent of this guide is not to praise one type of source over another, but rather to show you the differences in how information is created in order for you to make informed choices for your research. Check out the links below for more information:
Check out our evaluating sources guide via the link below. Explore the examples given to test your evaluating skills.
