Information Literacy: Finding Accurate Information Online
The quantity and pace that information becomes available can make it difficult to separate fact from fiction. From sensational headlines, AI generated content, and curated data- research can be very confusing! Here are some tips from your Librarians on finding information and ensuring it is trustworthy. And when in doubt- be sure to ask! We are always happy to help with research.
Tools for Evaluating Information
Misinformation:
Disinformation:
Sharing Information Online: Practice good digital citizenship and verify information for accuracy.
The SIFT Method
Determining if resources are credible is challenging. Use the SIFT method to help you analyze information, especially news or other online media. The SIFT method is an evaluation strategy developed by digital literacy expert, Mike Caulfield, to help determine whether online content can be trusted for credible or reliable sources of information. All SIFT information on this page is adapted from his materials with a CC BY 4.0 license.
The CRAPP Test
The CRAAP Test is an evaluation method that was designed by librarian Sarah Blakeslee at the Meriam Library California State University, Chico. CRAAP stands for Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy and Purpose. This provides you with a method and list of questions to evaluate the nature and value of the information that you find.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
Fact Checking
The Fact Checker’s Guide to Manipulated Video
From Washington Post. This guide walks through examples of misleading, deceptive, and malicious videos used to spread misinformation.
FactCheck.Org
FactCheck.org is a nonpartisan, nonprofit “consumer advocate” for voters that aims to reduce the level of deception and confusion in U.S. politics. We monitor the factual accuracy of what is said by major U.S. political players in the form of TV ads, debates, speeches, interviews and news releases. Our goal is to apply the best practices of both journalism and scholarship, and to increase public knowledge and understanding.
AP Fact Check
The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.