Module 4: Evaluating Information

Authority

When you are evaluating information sources, authority refers to the qualifications and motivation of the author, creator, sponsor or producer of the information. It is important to determine why you believe the author has the necessary knowledge and expertise. However, you have to remember that experts can be wrong. Be highly critical and do not accept ideas that do not seem logical or are not supported with evidence. You can ask these questions to help determine whether an author has the expertise and qualifications to provide authoritative information on the subject.

• Who is the author?
• Are the author's qualifications provided?
• Is the source sponsored by an organization? If so, is the purpose and scope of the organization given?
• Does the author or sponsoring organization have the credentials or expertise to present information on the topic?