Check Your Source
Check Your Sources
Scholarly Journal
- In-Depth- primary account of original findings written by the researcher. Very specific information.
- Purpose- to advance knowledge and educate.
- Author- Usually a scholar or specialist with subject expertise and credentials provided.
- Written for scholars, researchers, and students.
- Uses specialized terminology or jargon of the field.
- Format- includes the article abstract, goals and objectives, methodology, results (evidence), discussion, conclusion, and bibliography.
- Articles are evaluated by peer-reviewers or referees who are experts in the field.
- References are provided.
- Examples- Journal of Abnormal Psychology, History of Education Quarterly
Popular Magazine
- Secondary discussion of someone else's research, may include personal narrative or opinion, general information.
- Purpose- to entertain or inform
- Author- frequently a journalist paid to write articles, may or may not have subject expertise.
- Written for the general public and interested non-specialists.
- Easily understandable to most readers.
- Format- may include non-standard formatting. May not present supporting evidence or a conclusion.
- Articles are evaluated by editorial staff not experts in the field.
- References or source materials rarely provided.
- Examples- Sports Illustrated, National Geographic, Time, Newsweek, Ladies Home Journal.
Trade Journal or Magazine
- Current news, trends or products in a specific field or industry.
- Purpose- provide practical industry information
- Author- usually industry professional, sometimes a journalist with subject expertise.
- Written for industry professionals and interested non-specialists.
- Uses specialized terminology or jargon of the field, but not as technical as a scholarly journal.
- Format- organized like a journal or newsletter. Presents evidence from personal experience or common knowledge.
- Articles are evaluated by editorial staff, not peer reviewed.
- References may be provided in brief bibliography, not required.
- Examples- PC World, Restaurant Business, Psychology Today, School Band and Orchestra
