1. G058 - Lecture XX Evaluating Information Sources Mr C Johnston ICT Teacher www.computechedu.co.uk

2. Session Objectives Understand the validity of different information sources Be able to critically analyse information sources used during this unit,

3. Task F Overview Task F of this unit requires you to write a critical report which analyses and evaluates different information sources used when preparing specifications and finding solutions to problems, You need to analyse and evaluate the effectiveness of each source used in terms of: Accuracy – is the information provided up to date and reliable, Relevance – is the information suitable for what you need, Currency – is the information provided in the correct currency. For higher marks you need to use critical analysis.

4. Official Forums - Microsoft TechNet - Microsoft MSDN User Forums -Experts Exchange Manufacturers Website -Intel - online datasheets - digital datasheets in pdf Retail Websites -Ebuyer -Dabs Price comparison websites - price runner Review websites - Ciao - personal opinions - benchmarking statistics Books - Study guides - Workshop manuals Magazines - General PC Magazines - Classified / advertising magazines - Special magazine guides Price lists / catalogues EBooks Face-to-Face - Shop visits - Phone calls Different Information Sources

5. Task F Mark Scheme Mark Band 1 (0-3 marks) You compare information sources used when specifying and upgrading systems in terms of accuracy, currency and relevance, Mark Band 2 (4-5 marks) You evaluate information sources used when specifying and upgrading systems in terms of accuracy, currency and relevance, Mark Band 3 (6-7 marks) You write a critical analysis of information sources used when specifying and upgrading systems in terms of accuracy, currency and relevance,

6. Exercise In groups create a table similar to the one below and add generic advantages and disadvantages of each information source – think about how you used each within your work, Have a look at the previous examples of this task and apply the mark scheme, Write your evaluation of information sources used during this unit – make your comments as critical as possible. Information SourceAdvantagesDisadvantages