The framework of prior knowledge in online credibility evaluation

Abstract

Although prior knowledge has been shown to contribute to reading comprehension, research has paid limited attention to its role in how people read to evaluate the quality of online information. Moreover, empirical studies have largely focused on content knowledge while neglecting other types of prior knowledge. This article introduces The Framework of Prior Knowledge in Online Credibility Evaluation. This framework extends existing credibility evaluation models by incorporating five interconnected prior knowledge types and describes how they can contribute to the effective use of credibility evaluation strategies. Content knowledge includes vocabulary knowledge and broader declarative knowledge, whereas evidence knowledge includes the understanding of different types of evidence and reliable processes for producing evidence. Source knowledge refers to knowledge about the expected expertise, argument position, and intentions of the source, along with source-specific knowledge about authors and organizations. Online genre knowledge involves the understanding of textual forms, structures, conventions, and typical communicative purposes associated with various types of online texts. Finally, cultural knowledge includes an understanding of norms, values, beliefs, and practices shared within a particular society or community. The framework offers theoretical, methodological, and instructional contributions that can significantly inform future research, assessment, and instruction aimed at cultivating critical online readers.