JOUR 307: Reporting and Writing II: Fact Checking

Facts on the web

Having accurate information is essential in news reporting. Sometimes it is necessary to check that facts and information reported in a story. Here are a few resources to do so:

Evaluating Sources

Scope
Who is the intended audience?
Currency
Is the information still considered valid
Originality
Is this a primary source? or a secondary source which compiles, analyzes or evaluates a primary source? commentary on another source?  Is it simply opinion?
Reason
What is the author's goal of the article / book / website?
Expertise
What qualifications does the author have? Why does this author have credibility