Evaluation Criteria

Authority
Author is easily identified in the documentation; qualified to write and publish on the subject; affiliated with a credible and reputable institution and/or publisher. The author is well-known and respected in the field of study.

Accuracy
It is noted on the Web page that the information is peer-reviewed, edited, and all facts have been checked. There are no typos in the text and the information is presented coherently.

Objectivity
Information is presented without bias; both sides of the issue are represented; the author, institution, and/or publisher are not using the information to influence the reader and serve their own interests. The author acknowledges any controversial aspects or limitations to the information/research they are providing.

Compare these two sites on the topic of second-hand smoke:

OncoLink Nurse Notes: Second-hand Smoke
Smokers with Attitude: Secondhand Smoke: The Big Lie

Currency
Information is up-to-date or very recently updated; the date of the last update is clearly displayed. For primary and seminal works in a subject area, the currency element is irrelevant, as the inherent worth of the work gives it longevity.

Coverage
The content reflects the author has a knowledge of the subject matter and is aware of current trends in the field.  The author shows knowledge of schools of thought, theories, and methodologies appropriate for research in the subject areas addressed.  The document provides the information proposed in the thesis statement and additional resources, such as a bibliographies, works cited, links to other relevant Web sites, and information about similar research and researchers in the subject area are offered.  All information offered is cited in the appropriate format for the subject areas and is verifiable.

Website Evaluation Form

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Parts of this evaluation are taken from an original document by Karen McLachlan.
Karen McLachlan, Media Specialist
East Knox High School
23227 Coshocton Rd.
Howard, Ohio 43028

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