Checking for Bias
- How to Detect Media Bias (FAIR)Guidelines for detecting bias in media from Fairness in Accuracy & Reporting (FAIR).
- Media Bias Chart (Ad Fontes Media)Provides static and interactive media bias charts. Create a free account for access to the full interactive chart.
- AllSides
Exposes bias and provides multiple angles on the same story so you can quickly get the full picture, not just one slant. - Media Bias / Fact Check
The most comprehensive media bias resource on the internet. Currently lists 1800+ media sources in their database.
Hands-On Exercise
In groups of 3, use the criteria discussed on this guide to evaluate one of the following sources. Be prepared to report out to the class at the end of your group discussion.
Evaluating Sources - CRAAP Method
| Criteria | Questions to Ask |
|---|---|
| Currency | The timeliness of the information. - When was it published? - Has the information been updated or revised? - Does your topic require current information, or will historic information meet your needs? |
| Relevance |
The importance of the information for your needs. - Does the information in the source relate to your topic or answer your question? - Who is the intended audience? - Is the information at an appropriate level? |
| Authority | The source of the information. - Who is the author or publisher? - What are the author's credentials? - Does the URL reveal any thing about the source (e.g., .com .edu .gov .org) |
| Accuracy |
The reliability, truthfulness, and correctness of the content. - Where does the information come from? - Is the information supported by evidence? - Is the publication peer reviewed or refereed? - Does the language seem unbiased and free of emotion? - Are there spelling, grammar, or typographical errors? |
| Purpose | The reason the information exists. - What is the purpose of the information (e.g., to inform, teach, sell, entertain, or persuade)? - Do the authors make their intentions or purpose clear? - Is the information fact, opinion, or propaganda? - Does the point of view appear objective and impartial? - Are there political, ideological, cultural, religious, institutional, or personal biases? |
| Pro Tip: It’s a good idea to find additional sources that verify the information you found on a website to make sure that the information provided is true and accurate. | |
