​​Dissecting Digital Resources

Do you find yourself confused regarding fake news? No need to worry. There are very helpful solutions and tools for you to use. Here are several very reputable fact checking websites I encourage you to use on your own or expose to your students
There are very helpful solutions and tools for you to use. Here are several very reputable fact checking websites I encourage you to use on your own or to expose to your students:
 
http://www.factcheck.org/


 
http://www.politifact.com/

 

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http://www.snopes.com/

 
I would like to remind you that since joining Tri-County in March of 2014, I have worked to bring to the attention of our patrons the importance of credible information.  I have shared with you previously a simple resource I have for patrons to read and take in prior to accessing resources.
​Here it is again: Click link that will assist you in evaluating the resources you have already found and deciding if you should consider using this content or moving on to a different online resource. Try to use your time wisely by sharpening your CRAP test skills and become competent researchers. 
I urge you to remember that when you are working on a lesson plan that requires searching for information please consider seeing me and ask me to provide or advise you and/or your students about credible information that can be found online. Often times I see students accessing information that is not sound, current, relevant to what they are supposed to be researching or authoritative. When seeking resources on your own please ask yourself:
  • What is the main purpose of the site?
  • Can you find a clear statement of purpose for the organization?
  • Is the information bias or the point of view clearly stated?
  • Is this an opinions-based piece and is it clearly labeled as such?
  • Is adverting clearly separated from content?
If your users can’t answer the following information have the user consider SCRAPPING this as a valid resource:
  • Who is the author/creator?
  • What are their credentials?
  • Is the creator an expert in the topic or a professional journalist?
  • Does the sponsoring organization have good credentials/ a solid reputation?
  • What does the URL reveal about the source?
Please consider reading this article from The Verge or this article from The Christian Science Monitor.
CommonSense Media has additional helpful tips you may want to use.
Now test yourself with these news stories: