Library Guides: Media Literacy: Source Evaluation Methods

S.I.F.T. (The Four Moves) Method

The S.I.F.T. method was developed by Mike Caulfield at Washington State University in Vancouver to provide students with a list of four simple steps to take when evaluating a source of information.

Stop

Ask yourself whether you know the website or the source of information.
Don't read or share the information until you feel confident that it comes from a quality source.
Know your purpose, as that will determine the extent of the research that you do into the source.

Investigate the Source

Learn about the expertise of the author, including the credentials of the person or organization responsible for the piece.
Learn about the agenda of the author, such the desire to persuade to a certain point of view or to sell a product.

Find Better Coverage

Seek other sources that will help you evaluate the truthfulness of claims made in what you are reading.
Learn whether there is much consensus or dispute about any claims made.

Trace Claims, Quotes, and Media Back to the Original Context

Make every attempt to find the original source in order to be certain that nothing has been misrepresented or taken out of context. A quality source will often have a citation or hyperlink to the original.
When doing a Google search, understand that the original source might not always be the first one that appears in the list of results.

Click here for more information on S.I.F.T.

Applying the CRAAP Test will help you assess the credibility and relevance of sources, ensuring your research is based on accurate and reliable information.

Currency: How Current is the Information?

Ask when the information was published or last updated.
Are links broken? Broken links might indicate outdated content or a neglected website.

Relevance: How Well Does the Information Fit Your Needs?

Assess whether the information directly addresses your research topic or question. It should be pertinent and useful.
Identify who the intended audience is. Make sure the content is suitable for your academic level and research objectives.

Authority: Who is Behind the Information?

Do a quick Google search on the author.
Find out who authored or published the content. Reliable sources provide details about the author’s qualifications and expertise in the subject area.
Ensure that the author or organization has relevant credentials or expertise in the topic covered.

Accuracy: Is the Information Reliable and Correct?

Verify the content with other reputable sources to confirm its accuracy.
Look for evidence that the information has undergone review or peer review by experts in the field.
Reliable sources should include citations or references to support their claims.
Evaluate the quality of the writing. Professional, error-free writing often indicates a credible source. Watch for any biased or emotional language.

Purpose: What is the Intent of the Information?

Identify the purpose behind the content. Determine if it aims to inform, persuade, entertain, or sell something. Understanding the intent helps in assessing potential biases.
Check whether the authors or sponsors clearly state their objectives and any possible biases.
Evaluate whether the content is presented in an objective manner or if it seems to have a particular bias or agenda.

Adapted from the CRAAP Test created by Meriam Library at California State University, Chico