Research methods

 Interactive Media Bias Chart | Ad Fontes Media

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 CRAAP Test

Use for: Evaluating sources and information reliability
Focus:

• Currency – How recent/up-to-date is the information?

• Relevance – Is it directly useful to your project?

• Authority – Who is the author or publisher? Are they credible?

• Accuracy – Is the evidence supported by data or citations?

• Purpose – What is the intention behind the source (inform, persuade, sell)?

✅ Best for: Websites, articles, videos, and popular media sources

RAVEN Framework

Use for: Judging the credibility of the author/source
Focus:

• Reputation – What’s their standing or expertise?

• Ability to Observe – Were they in a good position to get the information?

• Vested Interest – Do they gain anything by persuading you?

• Expertise – Do they have qualifications or background knowledge?

• Neutrality – Are they biased or impartial?

✅ Best for: Interviews, opinion pieces, expert blogs, and first-hand accounts

 3. OPVL Method (Origin, Purpose, Value, Limitation)

Use for: Evaluating historical or primary sources
Focus:

• Origin – Who created it and when?

• Purpose – Why was it created?

• Value – What does it reveal or contribute to your research?

• Limitation – What can’t it tell you or what biases exist?

✅ Best for: Primary sources, news articles, speeches, or archival materials

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💡 4. PESTLE Analysis (optional but strong for social/economic topics)

Use for: Evaluating contextual factors influencing your topic
Focus:

• Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, Environmental

• ✅ Best for: Topics like economics, media, business, or social sciences