Evaluating Sources (click for printer-friendly version)
EVALUATING INTERNET SOURCES
Anyone proficient with a computer can post information on the Web or put something up on the Internet that looks professional-There is no safety net between the author and the user (you). Often it's difficult to tell:
- Where it came from
- Who the author is
- When it was written…
Hence, why it's so important to critically evaluate each website you intend to use to support your papers, speeches, projects, etc.
Access and Ease of Use
- Is the site design attractive and effective?
- Do graphics or sound interfere with the site's readability?
- Do links on the site work?
- Is the site easy to navigate?
Authority
- Who is the author of the website or webpage?
- Are the credentials of the author or developer listed?
- Is the author qualified to write about the topic?
- Is the ability to contact the author or developer and verify legitimacy provided?
- Is the sponsor of the webpage clearly evident? Is the sponsor legitimate?
The domain name in the URL (Web address) can provide clues to the potential worth of the website in providing information for your paper or project. Common suffixes are:
.com = Commercial sites are usually business or commercial sites. Their intention is primarily to sell a service or product. Usually only favorable comments are made and faults aren't mentioned.
.org = Organization; may be religious, charitable, a lobbying group; generally try to persuade viewers to their point of view. Looking at sites for both sides of an issue can provide useful information.
.gov = Government agency; usually a reliable source of information; some information may be selectively presented depending upon the political party in power.
.edu = Higher education; are assumed to have reliable content. However, they run the gamut from hosting personal websites and organizations on campus and in the community, "selling" their institution to prospective students, and providing academic freedom for faculty.
.mil = Military site; for example: www.navy.mil/ or www.army.mil/.
~("tilde") = Personal site; www.ddc.com/~kjohnson/birdcare.htm. Remember, even a third grader could (and does) post a personal website.
Objectivity
- Can you determine the purpose & scope?
- Is there evidence of explicit bias or is it hidden?
- Does the identity of the sponsor or author imply a bias?
- How does any bias impact the potential usefulness of the information?
Currency
- Is this the most current information on your topic?
- When was the website or webpage created?
- When was the page last revised or modified?
- Is it updated and maintained on a regular basis?
Coverage
- Is the information accurate, useful, or unique?
- Are registration or cost requirements clearly stated? ”
- Does the website adequately cover the subject?
Think twice about using your source in an academic paper if you can't supply these elements!
Go to: Evaluating Print Rescources
