How to evaluate information sources (CARS Checklist)

Researchers and students need to use credible information sources when producing their academic work. Using the C.A.R.S checklist is one way to evaluate information sources.

When producing high quality academic work, you need to support your statement and arguments with high quality information as evidence. It means the information needs to be relevant, accurate, and recent.

Students are expected to refer to journals, books, and e-books; while these go through a formal publishing process, you should make sure the information provided is of a reasonably high standard. Websites and blogs on the other hand are created for different purposes and may not always be suited for academic work.

Cars Checklist

The CARS (Credibility, Accuracy, Reasonableness, and Support) checklist is one way to assess the quality of information. You can use it to find high quality information

Find out more about the author, such as title, career history, and among peers. Also, find out more about the author’s education, training and experience in the field.

Is the information current or is it outdated? Is the information exact and comprehensive?

Does the author provide a balanced argument? Is there bias or conflict of interest?

What are the sources for the information listed in the work? Does it have a bibliography? Has the author provided any contact information in case someone has a query pertaining to the information provided?

References

Harris, R., 1997. Evaluating Internet research sources. Virtual salt.