Using research that has been evaluated by other experts in the field (peer reviewed or refereed) is an efficient way of finding research of value. Some ways to identify if the research is peer-reviewed:
- Use the database: some databases consist entirely (or almost entirely) of peer-reviewed literature (for example:Sociological Abstracts, Abstracts in Anthropology, ERIC, PsycInfo).
- Many databases allow you to LIMIT your search to peer-reviewed or scholarly literature (for example: 1Search, EBSCO databases like Academic Search Premier).
- Check the journal's editorial policy statement for an explicit statement (generally small print at the front of the issue, or visit the journal's web page). Look for a list of editors, which can be an implicit indication of peer review.
- Ask a librarian for assistance.