Searching for Primary Research: Science in Popular Media
If you come across an interesting science reference in popular media, consider upgrading your source. Before you invest time in evaluating how reliable a news story or social media post is, consider if you can find a better source on the same topic.
Oftentimes websites or social media will reference research studies. Instead of reading their summary or reposting, go back to the original source.
This short (1:55) video reviews how to locate scientific studies mentioned on websites or in social media.
Tracing Back to the Original Source
Some strategies for finding studies referenced in popular media include:
- Clicking on any studies that are linked
- Using keywords to search for the study and author
- Using quotes to search for an exact title
- Using keywords to search for the study or author in the library databases Links to an external site. or Google Scholar Links to an external site.
If you get stuck at any point, Ask A Librarian Links to an external site.!