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Finding Reliable Information

RADAR - No, not the kind for your car.

There are a variety of methods and strategies for evaluating the information that you find on the internet, but Daytona State College Library has singled out the RADAR Framework as a good step process for students and researchers to follow.

So...

What is RADAR and how can it really help you find reliable information on the internet?

RADAR


Evaluate your sources using the RADAR framework! It's your quick guide to whether or not you can trust an information source.


R - Relevance


Is the information that you found relevant to your research or assignment? Be sure to know how this information can help you answer your research question.


A- Authority


Is the author of the information that you found a reputable professional in their field? Look into the authors of the articles you are reading to ensure that they are affiliated with an academic or otherwise respected institution.


D - Date


Is the information that you found up-to-date? Check the dates on all of the articles, books, and other resources you find to make sure that you are getting type of information that your research requires.


A - Accuracy


Is the information that you found peer-reviewed or supported by empirical evidence? Take a look at the resource and try to identify aspects of it that point to accurate information. This can include citations, references, professional writing styles, lack of spelling and grammatical errors, and institutional publishing.


R - Rationale/Reason


Why is the information that you found being published? Be aware of the purpose of the information, such as to inform, entertain, educate, persuade, or advertise. Institutional bias can be present even in academically published resources.

RADAR Framework

A more detailed handout for the RADAR Framework is available via the link below:

For a video overview of the RADAR Framework, check out this video by IRSC Libraries: