How do you know if digital learning resources and networks are trustworthy?

1 Check the source

One of the first things you should do when you encounter a digital learning resource or network is to check the source. Who created or curated the content? What are their credentials, expertise, and reputation? Are they affiliated with any organization or institution? Do they have a clear purpose and audience for their work? How do they cite their sources and acknowledge their influences? Checking the source can help you assess the credibility, authority, and bias of the digital learning resource or network.

2 Compare and contrast

Another way to evaluate the quality and accuracy of a digital learning resource or network is to compare and contrast it with other sources. How does it align or differ from other reputable sources on the same topic? Does it provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support its claims? Does it address different viewpoints and counterarguments? Does it acknowledge any limitations or gaps in its knowledge? Comparing and contrasting can help you verify the validity, consistency, and completeness of the digital learning resource or network.

3 Seek feedback

A third way to enhance your trust in a digital learning resource or network is to seek feedback from others. How do other learners or experts review or rate the resource or network? What are their comments, questions, and suggestions? How do they interact with the content and with each other? How do they respond to your inquiries or contributions? Seeking feedback can help you gauge the relevance, usefulness, and popularity of the digital learning resource or network.

4 Apply your own criteria

A fourth way to determine the trustworthiness of a digital learning resource or network is to apply your own criteria. What are your learning goals and needs? How does the resource or network meet or exceed your expectations? How does it challenge or inspire you? How does it fit with your values and beliefs? How does it affect your actions and decisions? Applying your own criteria can help you measure the impact, value, and meaning of the digital learning resource or network.

5 Update your knowledge

A fifth way to maintain your trust in a digital learning resource or network is to update your knowledge. How current and relevant is the content and the conversation? How often is it updated or revised? How do you keep track of the changes and developments? How do you incorporate new information and insights into your learning? Updating your knowledge can help you stay informed, curious, and adaptable in the digital learning environment.

6 Respect the rules

A sixth way to foster trust in a digital learning resource or network is to respect the rules. What are the norms, expectations, and policies of the resource or network? How do you follow them and contribute to them? How do you respect the rights, privacy, and diversity of others? How do you report or resolve any issues or conflicts? Respecting the rules can help you create and sustain a safe, ethical, and respectful digital learning community.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?