AUTHORITY:
Who created (author/s) this info? What kind of credentials does the author have, a PhD, Masters degree?
What knowledge or skills does the author have in the area? Is the author an expert in the field?
Is there an “About” tab on the website?
OBJECTIVITY:
Is the info biased? Are balance perspectives presented?
How does sponsorship impact the perspective of the info?
RELIABILITY:
Is the info accurate?
Does the info come from a school, university, business, company site, or government institution?
Five minute video that breaks down the "peer-reviewed" process in journal articles.
Click on the document below to review the differences between popular and scholarly literature.
This slide provides information on some of the characteristics of scholarly literature, especially in relation to peer-reviewed material.
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SCHOLARLY JOURNALS |
POPULAR MAGAZINES |
TRADE MAGAZINES |
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ADVERTISING |
Few or no advertisements |
Extensive advertising |
Extensive advertising |
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AUDIENCE |
Scholars and college students |
General; broad-based |
Working Professionals |
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AUTHOR |
Scholars & researchers |
Staff and freelance writers |
Professionals and staff |
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BIBLIOGRAPHY |
Articles: long bibliographies |
None |
Might have a short bibliography |
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LANGUAGE/TONE |
Academic, research-oriented |
Simple language |
Professional terminology |
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LENGTH OF ARTICLE |
Can be 6-40 pages |
Varies; often short |
Varies, often short |
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OVERALL APPEARANCE |
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PUBLISHER |
University or professional |
For-profit, commercial |
Professional organizations |
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EXAMPLES |
Scholarly journals are expensive and available through academic libraries. |
Magazines are available in bookstores and stores.
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Trade magazines come with membership in a professional organization. |
