Good sources of information are often linked to previous research and indicate the author's knowledge of what has already been written about a topic. Ask yourself:
- Does the author appear knowledgeable about the major literature in the field?
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In-text references to previous research (e.g., Karr and Chu, 1999) demonstrate this author's knowledge of the major findings in coral reef research.
http://www.epa.gov/owow/oceans/coral/charting/sect1.html
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- Is there a bibliography? Proper documentation of sources not only demonstrates the author's knowledge but also gives you an opportunity to verify the information by checking the original sources.
- Are there notes or links throughout the document? Unlike authors of print documents, authors of online documents can link directly to the material they cite.
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This excerpt from a hypertext article on accommodating specific learning disabilities in the classroom includes references to previous research, a link to a reputable site, and a link to a related topic (formal testing).
http://english.ttu.edu/kairos/7.1/binder2.html?coverweb/grover_hendricks/article.htm
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