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Evaluating Internet Sources

When searching the Internet for your topic, make sure that the websites you use are reputable. The Internet is not regulated by anyone or any agency. This means that anyone with access to a computer can place information on the web.

The following is a list of things to look for when evaluating a website for use.

Authority

Who is the author?
What are the author’s qualifications?
Are they affiliated with an institution, agency, etc.

Accuracy

Where did the author(s) get their information?
Did the author list their sources?
Is this a primary or secondary source?
Is the information free of spelling or grammatical errors?

Objectivity

Is the information presented with a minimum of bias?
Does it give fact or opinion?
Who is sponsoring the webpage?
Are they trying to sell you something?
What is the purpose? Educational? Informative? Entertainment?

Currency

Is the publication date clearly stated?
When was the last revision made?

Coverage

What topics are included?
Explores subject in depth?
Does it provide links to other sources?

Essential Page Elements

Author or Contact Person
Title
Date
Institution Name
Link to a Home Page