Media Bias Fact Check has the best approach for reviewing information for accuracy. The website has an integrated system consisting of objective measures and subjective analyses (Media Bias Fact Check, 2021). It recognizes that there exists no single perfect formula for determining the bias of media and information sources. Most measures use some level of subjective judgment at some point to substantiate the accuracy of the information source. Blending objective and subjective techniques enables the website to leverage each approach’s strengths and reduce its inherent weaknesses.
Each of these websites has some gaps in its respective methodology. For instance, Fact Check relies on the evidence provided by the person or organization making a claim to substantiate the accuracy of the source. The use of such supporting materials may lead to inaccurate or misleading evaluation. This concern illuminates the need to rely on legitimate authority and several pinions when determining if the information is factual. Similarly, Media Bias Fact Check’s reliance on page views data from third-party sources to determine a source’s traffic compromises the credibility of the organization’s evaluation criteria. If such information is unavailable, the organization uses an estimation method that is prone to subjective bias. In Snopes.com, an entry is assigned to a sign editor for primary research, consequently raising objectivity, accuracy, and reliability concerns. The organization can generate more reliable fact-check by giving a source to multiple editors instead of one.
Every person needs to evaluate information to become a wiser consumer of information. After reviewing the three websites, it became apparent that not all media and information sources are accurate and reliable. There are many instances at school and work when people have to make decisions based on information. Knowing how to evaluate and determine the accuracy, credibility, timeliness, coverage, and authority of sources can enable a person to overcome the risk of deception and make better-informed decisions in life.
References
Media Bias Fact Check. (2021). Methodology. Web.