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Built Environment: Evaluating what you find

Evaluating Sources

Are the sources you are using to write your assignments of good quality? Are they academic, scholarly sources? Is it ok to use websites?

When carrying out any research it is important to evaluate the information that you have found for validity and credibility.

Take a look at the information your lecturers have posted up on BlackBoard. Most will provide help and guidance on how to write up your literature review and dissertations. This will usually include guidance on layout (headings, word count etc.) as well as practical information on the skills you need to evaluate and critically appraise the material you find. 

Evaluating the Search

  • Did you find the information you were looking for? Is it relevant?​

  • Did you find too many results or not enough?

  • Is there anything missing?​

    If you answer no or not sure to any of the above, you may need to adapt the search.​
     

  • Check your keywords; you may need to add or remove keywords.

  • Try using some advanced search techniques and databases filters.​

  • Do you need to search another resource? Use the Subject Guides to find additional resources.

McMaster University Library - How to Evaluate Resources, The CRAAP Test

University of Bolton - Evaluating Internet Sources