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.
Hazards
of the Web
Website
Evaluation Form
Parts if 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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Creating Permanent Links to Full Text Articles
Evaluating
Websites