Research and Information Literacy Flashcards

Which citation style is most commonly required in social science courses?

Answer: APA (American Psychological Association)

APA style is the standard citation format in psychology, education, and other social sciences, emphasizing author and date in in-text citations.

In an APA in-text citation, what information is typically included?

Answer: Author's last name and year of publication

APA in-text citations follow the author-date format: (Smith, 2021), with a page number added for direct quotations (Smith, 2021, p. 45).

What is a 'keyword search' strategy?

Answer: Using specific, relevant terms to locate information in a database or search engine

Keyword searching involves selecting the most relevant and specific terms related to a topic and entering them into a search engine or database to find pertinent sources.

What is the difference between a 'bibliography' and a 'works cited' list?

Answer: A bibliography lists all sources consulted; a works cited list includes only sources actually cited in the paper

A bibliography includes all sources consulted during research (even if not cited), while a works cited list includes only those sources that were specifically referenced in the text.

Why is it important to cross-check information across multiple sources?

Answer: To verify accuracy and reduce the risk of relying on incorrect or biased information

Cross-checking information across multiple credible sources helps confirm its accuracy and reveals whether a claim is broadly supported or potentially inaccurate.

What does 'information literacy' mean?

Answer: The ability to identify, locate, evaluate, and effectively use information

Information literacy is the set of skills needed to recognize when information is needed and to find, evaluate, and use that information effectively and ethically.