Web Site Evaluation

 

Can the Internet be used for research?  Absolutely - if you look at each Web site you plan to use with a critical eye.  Consider the criteria: Author of the Site Whose idea was it? If one person, what are that person's credentials? If an organization, check the Encyclopedia of Associations in your library Is an address or e-mail address given? Place of Origin  What country or state does it come from? The United States Other countries (check the country code in the URL: .de for Germany, .au for Australia, .sg for Singapore, etc. URL What type of site is it? .com - commercial site .org - a group or organization .edu - an academic institution .gov - government site .mil - military site .net - network

Purpose  How objective will it be? To inform you To convince you of a point of view To sell you a product or service To amuse or entertain you Content Is it being updated to reflect current news and trends? Date of creation Last update Up-to-date links Intended Audience  What age or reading level is it aimed at? Organization Is the overal look pleasing and logical? Ease of Navigation Correct spelling and grammar Use of graphics Placement of ads Design