Computer Science

Elicit Information - How might I use keywords/concepts to construct a search?  What type of resources do I need and how many?

When using Google for broad searches, CRAAP it out.  

Currency: 

• When was the information published or last updated?

• Have more recent articles been published on your topic?

• Does your topic change rapidly (Popular culture, technology)?

Relevancy:

• Does the source add something new to your knowledge of the topic?

• Is the information too technical or simplified for you to use? 

• Does the information meet the requirements of the assignment?

Authority:

• What are the Author's credentials?

• Is the author affiliated with an educational institution or prominent organization?

• Is the relationship between the author and the institution clear?

• Can you find information about the author from the source?

Accuracy:

• Are there statements you know to be false? 

• Is it free from errors - spelling, punctuation, or grammar?

• Are there links to other reliable sources?

Purpose:

• Is there an obvious bias or prejudice?  

• Are alternate points of view presented? 

• Is the author's purpose to sell, persuade, entertain or sell?