17 Evaluating Both Google and Google Scholar

It is critical that you take time to reflect on the content you search for on both Google and Google Scholar. These platforms can be a useful tool when starting or during your literature search but also require knowledge justice-lens when you find content or sources that is exploitative, and even harmful. Navigating strategically and thoughtfully is the best approach to using any tool in your search process.

Remember that both Google and Google Scholar are just one type of search engine to use, and that Western Libraries has access to many different databases and Research Guides that you can also use during your research journey (using OMNI is a key resource for you while at Western University!).

Many of Western Libraries’ tutorial chapters should help guide and improve your knowledge justice techniques when searching and evaluating the content you are researching. Use our “As You Research” series to connect you to resources to enrich your understanding on how to effectively search, critically evaluate your sources, and further your capacity in being a responsible student and future researcher in your field!

If you have any questions, please contact us at Western Libraries for more support!