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OB 354 (Hong) - Behavior in Organizations

Fall 2023 - Prof. Yeong-Hyun Hong

Evaluating Sources

Are your sources appropriate for university-level research? You should always critically evaluate the sources you're using in your research assignments.

The CRAAP Method

The CRAAP method, which stands for currency, relevance, authority, accuracy, and purpose, outlines the key considerations when evaluating a source.

Ask yourself: Is this source CRAAP?

CurrencyThe timeliness of the information 

  • When was the information published or posted?
  • Has it been updated?
  • Do you need the most current, up-to-date information on your topic?

RelevanceThe information meets your assignment needs 

  • Does the source meet your assignment requirements?
  • Does the information directly relate to your topic?
  • Does it help you answer questions?
  • Have you looked at other sources to find the best one?

AuthorityThe source of the information 

  • Who is the author or publisher?
  • Are they qualified to write about this area?
  • If it's a website, what does the URL say about the source, i.e. .com .edu .gov .org?

AccuracyThe reliability and correctness of the information 

  • Is the information supported by citations or other evidence?
  • Can you verify the information with another source?
  • Is the author or publisher biased or unbiased? 

Purpose: The reason the information exists

  • What is the purpose of the information? To inform, sell, persuade, or entertain?
  • Is the information given a fact or an opinion?
  • Is the author or publisher biased or unbiased?
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