Evaluating Web Sites as Sources

  Evaluating Web Sites as Sources More and more, people rely on the Internet as a primary source of information. However, we know that all Web sites are not created equal. Anyone can create a Web site. It is important to evaluate who the author is. Be sure to click the "About me" or "About the organization" pages. Many Web sites have a purpose beyond simply providing information. They may be persuasive in nature, and the authors may attempt to get you to think a certain way or change your beliefs. The authors may also have the goal of selling you something. Web sites may look very professional and scientific, but they may not actually be backed by good, reputable research sources. As an informed researcher, it is your job to evaluate a Web site's quality before relying on its information. What criteria might you use to evaluate a Web site that you are hoping to use to inform your professional practice? Think about authors, credibility, purpose, and type of data provided, for example. What are the indicators of quality that you would focus on in your review?