Step 3. Evaluate Analyze information and sources
Web Sites | Primary v Secondary Sources | Types of Periodicals
While the Internet has made information instantaneously accessible, unfortunately NOT all of the information is reliable. To ensure you are only including valid information in your research assignments, evaluate websites using the below criteria.
Authority
Determining the author or source of information for a website is important in deciding whether information is credible. The author should show some evidence of being knowledgeable, reliable and truthful.
Questions to consider
Who is the author of the website (person, company, organization, etc.)?
Does the website provide any information that leads you to believe the author is an expert on the topic?
Can you describe the author's background (experience, education, knowledge)?
Does the author provide citations? Do you think these sources are reputable?
Coverage
While not all websites claim to be comprehensive, some only cover specific aspects of an issue or topic. It is important to look at the depth of coverage to determine whether the website is applicable to your research question and if the information you need is available from this website.
Questions to consider
To what extent does the website answer your research question?
What is missing from this website? What additional information do you need?
Currency
Some written works are ageless, such as classic literature, while other works like technological news become outdated very quickly. It is important to determine when the information was created and if it is pertinent to your research.
Questions to consider
When was the website created? When was the website last updated?
When was the information you are using written and posted on the website?
Objectivity/Bias
It is important to recognize that every author has an opinion or viewpoint. Recognizing this perspective is instrumental in determining if the information presented is objective or biased. For example, authors pretending to be objective may really be trying to persuade, promote or sell something.
Questions to consider
What is the purpose or motive for the site (educational, commercial, entertainment, promotional, etc.)?
Who is the intended audience?
Style and Functionality
Once you have evaluated the content of the website, the style and functionality may not be a concern. However, if it is difficult to find information in the website, its value is diminished and the design may become more important.
Questions to consider
To what extent is the site professional looking and well designed?
Is the site well organized and can you navigate around easily?
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