It can be difficult to determine whether information is scientific or not, especially online. Here are some things to consider when looking for information online:
Author:
- Is the author listed?
- Is the author an authority in this field or topic, is there any information about the author?
- Who has produced the material, i.e. is it produced by a well-known organisation, authority or expert? Are there contact details or other information about these?
Content:
- Is the content of the text objective or subjective?
- Is the content factual or the writer's own opinions?
- Is the content unique, or can similar or even better information be found elsewhere?
Target group:
- Who is the information intended for?
- Why has the information been published, and why online?
- Does the information suit your own information needs?
Reliability and formality:
- Is the information researched, objective and reliable?
- Are sources given, and is there a bibliography?
- Has the information been peer reviewed , i.e. has one or more experts in the subject evaluated the article or information before it was published?
- Is the language correct?
Actuality:
- Does the document have a date?
- Does the information need to be dated or updated, and how often is it updated?
- Is there more recent information available?
Source: Tiedon male chin opas [WWW]. Espoo, Aalto-yliopiston kirjasto. [Referenced 23.7.2024]. Available at: https://libguides.aalto.fi/c.php?g=410658&p=2797599