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Biology: Human Impacts on Earth

Biology: Human Impacts on Earth

Background Info

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Finding Credible Sources on the Web

Keep evaluating until you get a   for the source.

Before Searching, Ask

  • What would be the ideal source for your information need?
Are you accessing a trusted source of information, like a library database or a website recommendation from a teacher? Use it, it's credible!

When Searching the Web

  • Use click restraint to choose a result that best matches your imagined ideal source

🏈 Read Laterally

  1. Open a new tab & search for the source.
  2. Scroll until you find a website not by the source. Helpful tools:
    • Wikipedia
    • Google/Bing sidebars
  3. Look for...
 Are you finding information to indicate that the source is an expert in their field? Is it a nonpartisan and non-profit organization? Use it, it's probably credible!

 

Do your findings indicate the source is a conspiracy theorist, a fraud, or extreme in their views? Do they represent a for-profit entity that may gain by spreading this information? Don’t use it!

 

Not sure? Can’t tell? No author listed to search for? Find another source.

Wikipedia Reminder

NOT an adequate source for research information, but useful for a quick fact-check on a source.

Databases

Why Use Databases for Research?

  • Find different and more scolarly articles than in an internet search (most scholarly work is behind a paywall on the internet)
  • Database articles are already evaluated for accuracy and credibility
  • Choose a reading level that fits you
  • Use embedded tools, like highlighting and note-taking, to help you understand the article
  • Seamlessly connect to NoodleTools for citations

Organize Research

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Help

NoodleTools How-To

Database Logins

Click the more... link after the database description for login information.

Evaluate Internet Sources

Follow @OldAbesLibrary