Module 4: Evaluating Information

Evaluating Web Sources

The evaluation criteria on the previous pages apply to web sources as well. Since almost anyone can publish to the Internet, you will need to be very critical of the resources you find on the web. There are additional questions you can ask about a web source to assist you in choosing the best web sources for your needs. Authority:

• Is there an identified author of the web page or site?
• Is contact information, for example, an e-mail address and/or mailing address, given for the author?

Currency:

• When was the page or site last updated?
• Is the original copyright date posted?
• Does the page or site aim to provide current information or is it primarily for historical purposes?
• How up-to-date are the links on the site?
• Is the information timely in relation to the content?
• If the site or page provides time sensitive information, is the frequency of updates posted?

Another evaluation category more specific to web sources has to do with design. Some questions about website design include:

• Is the website easy to read and navigate? Are instructions clear?
• Does the site load quickly?
• Are there links to other pages and back to the main page? Are links up-to-date and active?
• Do design elements enhance or hinder the accessibility and content of the site?
• Does the site have stable and reliable access?