Center for Applied Behavioral Health Policy
Broadcast Media
Specific Sources: Broadcast media
At first glance
By thinking about the purpose of the program, you can easily find information to begin evaluating it as a reliable source. This information may include:
What type of program was it?
- News report, documentary, entertainment
What was the intention of the person who produced the show?
- To inform, to entertain, to sensationalize
Who was the intended audience?
- General public, children, professionals
Who presented the information?
- An actor, a paid spokesperson, an expert in the field
Where was the program aired?
- For example, if the program aired on public television this could add to the credibility of the source.
When was it produced?
- Keep in mind that depending on your topic the age of the material may be important.
A closer look
By taking a closer look at the program, you can find additional information to help you evaluate it.
Do you think there was a bias in the presentation of the information?
- Was the producer trying to influence your opinion?
- Was their position a neutral one or were they representing a particular perspective?
Was the presentation of information balanced?
- Did it present multiple viewpoints or just one?
How thoroughly did it cover the subject?
- Did it give a general overview?
- Was it an in-depth look on a single aspect of the subject?
How was the information presented?
- Did the program include interviews with experts or witnesses?
- Was the program a reenactment or actual footage of an event?
Social Sciences Librarian
The ASU Library acknowledges the twenty-three Native Nations that have inhabited this land for centuries. Arizona State University's four campuses are located in the Salt River Valley on ancestral territories of Indigenous peoples, including the Akimel O’odham (Pima) and Pee Posh (Maricopa) Indian Communities, whose care and keeping of these lands allows us to be here today. ASU Library acknowledges the sovereignty of these nations and seeks to foster an environment of success and possibility for Native American students and patrons. We are advocates for the incorporation of Indigenous knowledge systems and research methodologies within contemporary library practice. ASU Library welcomes members of the Akimel O’odham and Pee Posh, and all Native nations to the Library.
