Which type of Information Resource is best?
There are many different types of information resources, including: websites, encyclopedias, YouTube, people, books, databases, newspapers, magazines, TV, radio, etc. So which information resource is best?
The answer is there is not one information resource that is always going to be the best. There are pro's and con's with different information resources and which resource is "best" will vary depending on what information you are looking for.
However the key thing is that when you are doing research, eg for an Inquiry, you should use a variety of reliable information resources.
Find out more about the different characteristics of four of the most common information resources, Encyclopedias, Websites, Books and Articles:
The answer is there is not one information resource that is always going to be the best. There are pro's and con's with different information resources and which resource is "best" will vary depending on what information you are looking for.
However the key thing is that when you are doing research, eg for an Inquiry, you should use a variety of reliable information resources.
Find out more about the different characteristics of four of the most common information resources, Encyclopedias, Websites, Books and Articles:
1. EncyclopediasEncyclopedias are an excellent place to start your research because:
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2. Websites
With over one billion websites accessible on the internet, it is indeed an awesome resource.
You can find information about almost anything on the internet - but of course that doesn't always mean it's correct or reliable information.
Some points to remember when using websites as information resources:
Lastly, don't forget to check the Inquiry Topics webpage. Mrs Boniface may already have gathered together some good websites on the current Inquiry topic for you.
You can find information about almost anything on the internet - but of course that doesn't always mean it's correct or reliable information.
Some points to remember when using websites as information resources:
- Anyone can create a website (it doesn't cost anything) and they can write anything they like. Information or "news" provided on general websites could be true - or it could be fake.
- As with Wikipedia, you need to carefully evaluate information found on general websites and double (or triple!) check it against information from other sources. Check out the CRAAP Test for a useful evaluation tool (devised by librarians at California State University). CRAAP is an acronym that stands for Currency, Relevancy, Authority, Accuracy, Purpose.
- Websites can be easily updated so they can be a great source for current (up-to-date) information. However you will need to check when the website was last updated - a website may have been created 15 years ago and not updated since.
- Some websites are designed for school students or children, but many more are designed for adults - perhaps for experts or professionals. You will need to select the websites that are most relevant for your age and your interests.
- The purpose of many websites is to provide reliable information, but the most common reason websites exist is to make money. Other websites exist to entertain, persuade and sometimes trick people. Once again, it is up to you to evaluate each website and decide if the information is...(remember the CRAAP Test?)... Current, Relevant, Authoritative, Accurate, and if it's Purpose is appropriate for you.
Lastly, don't forget to check the Inquiry Topics webpage. Mrs Boniface may already have gathered together some good websites on the current Inquiry topic for you.
3. Books
Use the Library Catalogue to find books on your topic. The Catalogue might also lead you to a website or e-book, not just printed books. Ask Mrs Boniface if you can't find what you are looking for. |
4. Articles
- Newspaper, magazine, or journal articles can provide up-to-date information on very specific topics.
- Articles can be published online or in print. If printed, the frequency of publication means it can still a good source of current information (eg, daily newspapers).
- Articles are generally a reliable source of information as they are written by professional journalists whose work is checked before being published.
Use the "stuff" website for news articles and the EPIC databases for all types of articles. Ask Mrs Boniface about accessing EPIC - you will need the Heaton password and you also might need help deciding which database to search (there are over 20 to choose from).