Communication - Critical Thinking Week 2

The Author 

Health students, like all researchers, should critically question the author of an article when completing research for several key reasons:

1. To assess the credibility and expertise of the author. This helps to ensure they have the knowledge and expertise in the field, otherwise their writing lacks credibility
   
2. To assess the bias and objectivity. This can be based on their affiliations, funding or personal beliefs.
   
3. To ensure the information is accurate. You need to ensure their writing is grounded by facts, supported by evidence and the author is reputable (and not known for spreading mis-information)
   
4. To ensure the information is accurate. You need to ensure their writing is grounded by facts, supported by evidence and the author is reputable (and not known for spreading mis-information)

Which of these sources are appropriate for level 3

NHS

Skills you need

GCSE Psychology

Simply Psychology

A day in the life of a nurse blog

Are there any concerns over this question?

Why was the source written? 

Understanding the purpose, bias, and intent behind a source ensures that students research and assessments are built on credible, balanced, and up-to-date information. This practice not only strengthens their academic work but also prepares them for making informed and ethical decisions in their future studies and careers.

The purpose and the agenda should be questioned as this allows students to detect if the writing is promoting a product and ensuring it is non-bias. Why would health resources have a bias or be promoting a product?

Ensuring accuracy and relevance is important in all areas of health studies. It allows health students to check if the article was written for a specific trend or threat whilst also ensuring information is not outdated. Can you think of any research that you have read recently that may not be accurate? 

The time of writing and publication 

• Read the handout on Teams. Using the information design a mindmap that demonstrate why it is important to consider the date of writing and publication for your chosen vocation. 
• Add appropriate sources that you can use that have a relevant time scale to your mindmap that links to the area. 
• Upload these to Teams to share your ideas. @chloestirzaker may upload these to Instagram.

Write a sample response and place on teams. 

Place of publication. 

Ask ChatGPT or co-pilot the following question "“why should health students consider where a source was written when completing an assessment”

What was your answer?

Now complete your own research on the same question; what are the similarities and differences?

Which is more reliable for your research?