PACS 2: Divided by Faith  

The Library provides instruction and support to Pacific Seminar II's course objective: "to develop academic/college writing and research skills appropriate to freshmen students within a writing intensive course." In this guide you will find links to resouces that emphasize finding, rather than searching for information on your topic. If you find yourself overwhelmed by the amount of information out there or frustrated because you aren't finding exactly what you want, let us know. Friendly librarians are here to help you!

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"Is this website OK to use for my research?"  By applying these five criteria you can decide if they are sources to use. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Authority
   Is the document author or site sponsor clearly identified?
   Does the site provide contact information for the author or sponsor?
2. Objectivity or clear disclosure of advocacy
   Is the site's purpose clear (for example, to inform, entertain or persuade)
   Is the site explicit about declaring its point of view?
   Does the site indicate whether it is directed toward a specific audience?
3. Coverage
   Are the topics covered by the site clear?
   Does the site exhibit a suitable depth and comprehensiveness for its purpose?
   Is sufficient evidence provides to support the ideas and options presented?
4. Accuracy
   Are the sources of information stated?
   Do the facts appear to be accurate?
   Can you verify this information by comparing this source with other sources in the field?
5. Currency
   Are the dates included in the website?
   Is the information current, or at least still relevant for the site's purpose? For you purpose?
6. Still Not Sure?
   - Ask your professor or check with the librarian

Criteria list taken in whole from: Ramage, Bean and Johnson. The Allyn and Bacon Guide to Writing. 5th Ed. Boston: Pearson Education, Inc., 2009: 602.

Click here to access the Pacific Library User Tutorial Online and become an empowered researcher !