When you search for information on the Internet, determine the reliability and accuracy, or scholarship, of the sites you find. There is no quality assurance when it comes to information on the Internet. Some points to keep in mind when evaluating websites:
- Origin: Who owns the site? Who adds/edits content? Are the author's credentials listed? You should be able to find all of this information on a credible site.
- Design: The site should have a clean design, with little or no advertising
- Content: The site should contain quality information that is cited properly. The level and depth of the information should meet your needs, and you should be able to independently verify all information from other sources.
- Currency: All information on the site should be dated, and the site should be currently maintained. You should not find any broken links.
- Purpose/Agenda: Does the site contain an "About Us" section or mission statement? Is the site being used to sell a product?
