Course description

Checking a source begins with a precise question: what claim am I trying to establish, and how could this source know? Appearance, reputation, and confidence can provide clues, but they cannot replace an examination of the information behind the claim. This course shows how to trace a claim, investigate a publisher beyond its own website, evaluate expertise and anonymous attribution, and look for independent support. It also explains how to read original records and use fact-checks carefully. You will learn when a check gives a useful answer and when the available material leaves something unresolved.

Topics covered

• Following a claim to its source
• Looking beyond the page you are reading
• Expertise, witnesses, and anonymous sources
• When several reports count as separate evidence
• Original records and fact-checks
• media literacy
• Beginner

Prerequisites and next steps

This course belongs to Media Literacy. Start with the first step, then work through each level in order before moving back to the path.