By now, your professors have repeatedly stressed the importance of evaluating sources -- especially those on the Internet. Evaluating sources, however, extends far beyond the classroom. Elected officials in a local community almost banned certain cups due to the ingredient dihydrogen monoxide -- H20 (water). What promoted this idea? A Dihydrogen Monoxide Research Agency website created by a science teacher as an exercise to teach students about the importance of evaluating information.
Think about how common it is for someone to turn to Google to self-diagnose symptoms. This is so prevalent that Google has earned the name Dr. Google. Inaccurate information can be downright dangerous to one's health. It is also common for people to turn to news websites and social media. There are a variety of news outlets that have different -- and possibly biased -- slants on stories. Anyone can post anything on social media.
As future professionals, your will work with a variety of audiences such as patients, other professionals, and agencies. Please take the time to carefully review the information on this page, including the videos.
To view in full-screen, click the square in the lower right-hand column of the video.
What would social media be without memes, photos, and videos? There is a trend, though, of manipulating photos and videos to entertain or persuade.
To view in full-screen, click the square in the lower right-hand column of each video.
To view in full-screen, click the square in the lower right-hand column of the video.
1. Do a visual assessment.
2. Who published it (source)? Who wrote it?
3. For websites, what is the domain?
4. For websites, is there an "About Us" page?
5. Are sources/references given?
6. What is the tone?
The following sources are helpful for confirming facts and possible bias:
