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Understanding Peer-Reviewed Sources 

by Jennifer Muller on 2024-11-06T08:57:28-05:00 in Academic Writing, Research | 0 Comments

In today's digital age, information is everywhere. But how can we determine what's reliable and trustworthy? One crucial factor is whether a source has undergone peer review. In this blog post, we'll explore what peer review is, how it differs from popular publications, and why it's important for academic research. 

Peer review is a process where experts in a specific field evaluate the quality, validity, and originality of research articles before they are published. These reviewers, often referred to as "peers," assess the author's methodology, findings, and overall contribution to the existing body of knowledge. 

While both peer-reviewed articles and popular publications aim to inform and educate, there are significant differences in their approach and content. 

Peer-Reviewed Articles: 

  • Undergo a thorough evaluation by experts. 

  • Written for a specialized audience. 

  • Provide evidence and support for claims. 

  • Adhere to strict publication standards. 

Popular Publications: 

  • May not undergo the same level of scrutiny. 

  • Written for a broader audience. 

  • May not provide extensive references. 

  • Have more flexible publishing standards. 

To identify peer-reviewed sources, look for journals that explicitly state their peer review process or have a mission statement outlining their commitment to peer review. Additionally, some journals may provide information about their review board. Finally, use reputable academic databases which often include peer-reviewed articles. 

 

To filter for peer-reviewed articles in the Library Search, check the Scholarly Peer-Reviewed box under the Refine Results>Limit to tab on your search results page. See screenshot: 

A screenshot of a computerDescription automatically generated 

 

For more information about Peer-Review, explore the library’s Peer-Review Guide


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