UNIV 150 Foundations of Science: Home

Disciplines use sources differently, so what may be a primary source for a researcher in the humanities might be different than a primary source for a researcher in the sciences.

Primary sources provide information that is:

• created during the time being studied 
• first-hand perspective, or direct personal knowledge
• original source of information

The main types of primary sources in the sciences include:

• studies or experiments that provide new data, results, and theories

Secondary sources are second-hand information that comments on, interprets, evaluates, or discusses primary sources.

Some sources can be primary OR secondary, depending on the context. 

Examples of Primary and Secondary Sources in the Sciences

For More Information

• Identifying and Using Primary Sources
• Finding and Identifying Original Research Articles (primary sources) in the Sciences

Peer-reviewed sources (especially original research journal articles) are the main way that scholars share the results of their research with others in their field. Before they publish, these sources go through a multi-step process involving research, writing, peer-review, and revision. 

See our Peer Reviewed Publications guide for a list of of the steps in and a diagram of the process.

Also see our guide on Finding and Identifying Original Research Articles in the Sciences (original research articles in the sciences are peer-reviewed).

Check out our Research Assistance page for guides on various Library DIY guides, subject guide, and special topics guides. Some select guides include:

• Author and Title Searches in the library search/catalog
• How to Find Journals
• Finding and Identifying Original Research Articles (primary sources) in the Sciences
• Peer Reviewed Publications
• Identifying and Using Primary Sources
• Using Academic Search Complete

In class, we discussed the following things to consider when evaluating a source:

Stop and Slow Down.

• Ask yourself what you already know about the source and claim.
• Take note of any reactions (e.g. feeling a strong emotion) you have to the information.

Finding Information, Information Finding You, and Filter Bubbles

• How did you come across the information? Did you look for it (and where/how did you search)? Did it find you? (e.g. personalized ads, feeds, and search results)
• For more on filter bubbles, check out this TED Talk by Eli Pariser.

Investigate the Source and Claim

When investigating a source, consider the:

• Process (e.g. editing and/or peer-review)
• Expertise (degree or expertise of the author)
• Aim (what is the author's purpose - who was it written by and for, and why was it written?

Also, go beyond the About us page and investigate outside the source:

• What do others say about the source?
• Does it have a Wikipedia page?
• Do other trusted sources say anything about it?

When investigating the source, consider:

• Is the source supported by outside, reputable sources?

Consider the Context

• How does the source fit within the context of other sources on the same topic?
• What do you need the information for?
• What is the original context? -- Trace claims, quotes, data, and more back to the original source/context.

The tips for evaluating sources shared in class and above were adapted from the following sources:

• Web Literacy for Student Fact Checkers by Michael A. Caulfield
• SIFT (The Four Moves)
• Becoming a Fact-Checker (video) from the How Do I Evaluate Online Information? tutorial from University of Arizona Libraries.
• Evaluating Online Sources: A Toolkit
• Beware Online Filter Bubbles (TED Talk video)

Other Guides and Videos to Learn More

• Finding and Identifying Original Research Articles in the Sciences (NDSU Libraries)
• Know Your Sources: A Guide to Understanding Sources (Infographic from Portland Community College)
• Peer Reviewed Publications (NDSU Libraries)
• Identifying and Using Primary Sources (NDSU Libraries)
• Video for ENGL 120 with content that is about types of sources and evaluating sources (NDSU Libraries)

Let us know how you are feeling after your first week of classes! Submit responses below (or go to form here.)

In pairs, review each of the following three documents and determine whether each is a primary or secondary source. Be prepared to share your answers (and the reason for your answers) with the class.

Document 1

"Local climatic changes affect biodiversity responses to land use: A review"

Document 2

"Gene expression profiling of the green seed problem in soybean"

Document 3

"Earth breaks September heat record, may reach warmest year."

• the above link may not allow you to view it without a subscription. If you are unable to view it, try this link to the same source in a library database (may need to login)

Enter your responses on the Primary or Secondary? Part 1 Response Form 

From the NDSU Library website, use the database Academic Search Complete to find a science source that is of interest to you for this course. Once you've found a source, go to the Google Form linked below and answer the questions.

Find a Science Source Using Academic Search Premier Activity and Response Form

In pairs or small groups, you will evaluate a set of eight different sources and determine whether each is (a) primary or secondary, (b) 'good' and 'reliable', and (c) examples to support your decision. Be prepared to discuss with the class.
 

Start and complete the activity using this Google Form.

Find the original source article that is being discussed in the following news article

News article from Reuters:

Fossil of previously unknown four-legged whale found in Egypt

Provide your answers on this Google Form