As you gather sources to cite in your studies, it is important that you think critically about the types of references you use, as well as how and why they were created. Has the source been peer-reviewed by experts in the field, and if not, what other types of quality control are present? Is it an empirical research article, and how do you know? What is the reputation of the news outlet publishing the news article?
If you are ever unsure of whether a source is appropriate for your assignment, you are always welcome to reach out to a librarian for help!
Peer reviewed journals have an additional level of quality control by gathering feedback from experts in the field. See the "Types of Sources" tab for more information on peer review.
Lateral reading is an evaluation technique used by professional fact-checkers to determine the trustworthiness of online information. Watch the video to learn more about this technique.
One of the ways in which a news source demonstrates its authenticity and responsibility to its readers is through a publicly accessible code of ethics or standards. Here are some examples of codes, mission statement and ethics handbooks.
Adapted with permission from Fake News Guide created by K.T. Lowe at Indiana University East