Evaluating Sources on the Web

Should I use the web when doing research for a paper?
The answer is a qualified yes. The Web can provide good information, but much of the Web (especially material that is free) is not regulated. Therefore, you can’t always verify the authenticity and quality of the sources you find. The Web should supplement your research in books and journals, not replace it.

What criteria should I use to judge whether a Web source is good?
Ask the following questions when judging a Web source:

Accuracy. Is this source consistent with other books and articles you’ve read? Is there a bibliography or list of sources to verify that the information is accurate?

Authority. Who is the author or sponsor of the page? Are the author’s qualifications listed? Is there a way to contact the author or organization?

Purpose. Who is the intended audience? The extensions in the Web address can help you determine the type of site and purpose.
.com (commercial)
.org (nonprofit organization)
.edu (educational)
.gov (U.S. government)
.mil (military)
.net (network)
Why was the site developed? To sell, to persuade, to inform?

Currency. When was the site developed? When was it last updated? Are the links current and working?

The Web can be extremely helpful in doing research when used properly. However, remember that anyone can put up a Web page, so you have to be a critical evaluator of Web sources.

Web Sources to Avoid When Researching!
Sites that are a compilation of other students’ papers on your topic
Heavily biased and prejudicial sites
Sites that contain nothing more than an overview of the topic (E-pamphlets)
Sites that are selling a product

Take the Quiz!
Now that you have completed the orientation, take the quiz to see how much you know. Just click on the "finish" icon below to get started.