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EDUC970 Course Research Guide: Source Evaluation and Critical Appraisal

This guide contains information about databases, citation management tools, and search tips for the literature review.

Critical Appraisal Tools

"Critical appraisal is the process of assessing and interpreting evidence, by systematically considering its validity, results and relevance to your own context." 

Source: Critical Appraisals Skills Programme (CASP) glossary 

There are a number of critical appraisal checklists that have been developed by different organizations to help readers appraise the quality of an article. 

Evaluating Journals

Further Reading on Predatory Publishing

“Predatory journals and publishers are entities that prioritize self-interest at the expense of scholarship and are characterized by false or misleading information, deviation from best editorial and publication practices, a lack of transparency, and/or the use of aggressive and indiscriminate solicitation practices.” (Grudniewicz et.al. 2019).