You might recall learning about primary and secondary sources of information from your secondary school liberal studies teacher. But do you know why it's crucial for university students to handle these sources with care?
As Kragh (1989) explains, the purpose of distinguishing between primary and secondary sources is to ensure the independence and reliability of the information remain intact. This is why university professors and students place significant emphasis on this distinction when gathering information. The table below explains the definitions of primary and secondary sources, along with examples.
| Primary Sources |
Primary information sources are materials created at the time an incident or event occurred, intended to document and record the event as it happened. |
- Document
- Manuscript
- Autobiography
- Recording
- Diary |
| Secondary Sources |
A secondary information source is any resource that cites or builds upon primary sources to add an additional layer of meaning. This can include generalization, analysis, synthesis, manipulation, or interpretation of the original incident or event. |
- Book
- Critical Analysis and Review
- Journal Article
- Handbook
- Encycolopedias |
