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Chemistry 107: Forensic Science

Evaluating Research Sources: Questions to Consider

Comparing Popular and Scholarly Articles

Articles in Popular Magazines and Newspapers Articles in Scholarly (Peer-Reviewed) Journals
Written by journalists or magazine staff Written by experts affiliated with a research institution (university, hospital, etc.)
Purpose is to inform, persuade, or entertain the general public Purpose is to communicate research findings to other experts
Use language understood by the general public Use precise, discipline-specific language
Do not include a formal bibliography, works cited, or references list Always include a bibliography, works cited, and/or references list
Often include bright, colorful photos Often display data in black-and-white charts/graphs
Evaluated for publication by a magazine editor Have been evaluated and recommend for publication by other experts in the peer-review process
Popular magazines are often published weekly Scholarly journals are often published monthly or quarterly
  • Last Updated: Feb 5, 2024 9:59 AM
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Subjects: Chemistry