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SOCI 151: Introductory Sociology

Working with Sources

The BEAM model provides a framework for identifying how you might use a source in your own research. You might find a single source can be used to support multiple elements in the BEAM framework.

BEAM model details: Background to present information and establish facts; Exhibit to explicate, interpret, analyze; Argument to affirm, dispute, refine, extend; and Method to provide a critical lens, key terms, theory, style, perspective and discourse

Graphic of ACT UP method in acrostic format. ACT UP letters are larger and stylized to look like magazine cutouts. Text reads: Author - who wrote this? what do you know about the author? Are they qualified to speak on this topic? What are the credentials? Can you Google the author? Find a LinkedIn page? Anything else they wrote? Currency - how current is this research? When was it written? When was it published? Does this resource fit into the currency of your topic? Truth - how true/accurate is this information? Does the language of the source contain words to evoke an emotional response? Are there typos and spelling mistakes? Can you verify any of the claims in other sources? Unbias - is the information presented to sway the audience to a particular point of view? Resources should be impartial unless otherwise stated. Remember, bias is not always a bad thing as long as the source is explicit about their agenda. What about confirmation bias? Does this affect the way you search and choose resources? Privilege - check the privilege of the author(s). Why is this research present in the database? Are they the only folks that might write or publish on this topic? Who is missing in this conversation? Critically evaluate the subject terms associated with each resource you found. How are they described? What are the inherent biases of the publishing industry and library classification systems?

(Image text from Dawn Stahura's “ACT UP: Evaluating Sources”) 

If an author is privileged or biased in some way, that should not automatically disqualify a source from being used. However, it’s important to keep it in mind as you work on building your list of sources. This guide to inclusive citation has some helpful tips and information for doing this. 

As you start your research and throughout your research process, consider:

  • Which groups seem to be at the center of debates and analysis for the topic you are interested in? Are there any groups at the margins or periphery of research? Are there groups that are mentioned but not prioritized?
    • Who are the stakeholders? 
    • What voices could or should be included in your research?
    • If you looking at a particular community or geographic region, do you have sources from that community or region?
    • Are particular groups especially affected by the topic you're discussing? Do you have sources from those groups?
  • Where are the 'community spaces' (physical or digital spaces, or resources) where different groups have a voice and are able to freely express, represent, and self-determine their own identities?