A. Evaluate online information: CRAP test (6 minutes)
In this video, you are introduced to four criteria for evaluating online information. As you watch, think about how these criteria can help you identify appropriate sources for your academic assignments and research.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this video, you will be able to:
- Identify and define four criteria for evaluating online information
- Apply these criteria to an evaluation of a website
Make a prediction before you watch the video
- Evaluating online information is mostly about figuring out if information is relevant (yes or no).
- Criteria for evaluating online information can change, depending on the type of source (yes or no).
B. Test your knowledge: to Take this short quiz see if you have learned the four criteria for evaluating online information. Note: This quiz does not count towards your final grade.
And for fun: Play this CRAP test online game.
C. Apply the CRAP test to an academic source
When looking for and choosing sources for our academic work, we need to think critically about the creators of these sources (e.g., their expertise and bias). In addition, we need to evaluate our information resources (i.e., sources) based on our information need and the context in which we will use the information.
The CRAP test can be used to evaluate online information (i.e., websites), but it can also be used to think critically about academic sources that you find in library databases.
Note: Use the article shared by your instructor to evaluate a source.
D. SummaryRevisit your prediction after watching the video
- Evaluating online information is mostly about figuring out if information is relevant (yes or no).
- Criteria for evaluating online information can change, depending on the type of source (yes or no).
The CRAP test is one way to evaluate information (both online information and that found in print materials). Now that you can identify and define four criteria for evaluating online information, you can apply these criteria to an evaluation of a website.
E. Ask a librarian
You can email Martha if you have questions: martha.attridgebufton@carleton.ca.
