Research and Information Literacy Flashcards

What is a 'DOI' and why is it important for academic sources?

Answer: A Digital Object Identifier that provides a permanent link to an article online

A DOI (Digital Object Identifier) is a unique alphanumeric string assigned to a document that provides a permanent, stable URL for accessing it online.

When should you use an encyclopedia entry as a source in academic research?

Answer: As a starting point for background information, not as a primary citation

Encyclopedia entries are useful for getting a general overview of a topic at the beginning of research but lack the depth and specificity required as primary academic sources.

What is 'confirmation bias' in the context of research?

Answer: The tendency to seek out and favor information that confirms one's existing beliefs

Confirmation bias is the cognitive tendency to search for, interpret, and recall information in a way that confirms pre-existing beliefs, which can undermine objective research.

What is an 'annotated bibliography'?

Answer: A list of sources where each citation is followed by a brief summary and evaluation of the source

An annotated bibliography includes each citation followed by a short paragraph (annotation) that describes and evaluates the source's content, credibility, and relevance.

Which of the following questions helps determine whether a web source is authoritative?

Answer: Is the author identified, and do they have relevant credentials or institutional affiliation?

Authority is established by identifying the author's qualifications and institutional backing, not by the website's visual design or search ranking.

What is 'intellectual property' in the context of academic integrity?

Answer: Original creative or intellectual work that belongs to its creator and is protected by law

Intellectual property refers to original works of the mind—writing, research, inventions—that are legally protected and require permission or citation to use.