Evaluating Web Pages

  • Evaluating Free Webpages on the Internet

    Ask Yourself - Why are they giving away this information for free?

    To sell you something?
    To convince you of something?
    Because the information is not worth anything?
    ABC's of Evaluating Web Sites

    Authority

    • Who sponsors or created the web site?
    • Is there information about the sponsor or creator?
    • Can you contact the author/organization?
    • Does the address include .com, .edu, .gov, a tilde (~), or .org?  

     Bias

    • Are personal views expressed?
    • Is the information balanced, reflecting both sides of an issue, or is it trying to mislead the reader?
    • Can facts be verified?
    • Do facts match up with previous knowledge?
    • Check for supporting evidence.
    • Does the website want something of yours (money, time, information)?

     Content

    • When was the site created? Updated? Look for a copyright/revision date.
    • Is the webpage still under construction?
    • Is topic covered completely (thoroughly, in-depth) OR, is it partial (abridged, shortened, superficial)?  

    Design 

    • Are links up-to-date and active?
    • Is information organized and easy to navigate?
    • Are references included?
    • Does the text contain correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar?
    • Are there any broken images or an overabundance of ads?

     Some links for learning how to evaluate web sources:

    Some links to try: