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Finding, Reading & Evaluating Scholarly Sources

Evaluating the Science in Scholarly and Other Sources

Scientific research takes time and, in many cases, is measuring very specific variables. Exploratory studies usually need confirmation from further research. In addition, the media may misrepresent "conclusions." With this in mind, drawing concrete conclusions from only one study and citing news sources in your work can be problematic.

To help you better understand and cite the science:

  • Find the original study or source
  • Scrutinize who conducted the study and if it is biased
  • Look at the sample size of a study
  • Distinguish what type of study was conducted
Remember: Doing research in the sciences isn't about finding the results that best match your thesis; it is about finding the facts.

 

For more information check out these titles:

For more information on conducting studies with human subjects watch this video:

 

Content adapted from Sara Lawrence College Library: Evaluating the Science