Evaluation Criteria

Who is the author or sponsor?

  1. Is the document signed?
  2. Can I get more information on the author by linking from this page to other documents?
  3. Is the author/sponsor an authority?
  4. Is the web site sponsored by a well-known organization?
  5. What can you tell from the URL?

What is the coverage? What does this page offer?

  1. What topics are covered?
  2. How complete is the information?
  3. Is this information unique or is it repeating other sources you have used?

How current is the page?

  1. Are there any clues within the document?
  2. Is currency important for your topic?
    Example 1
    Example 2
  3. Do the links work?

How accurate is the information?

  1. Where is the author/sponsor getting the information presented?
  2. Is the information reliable and error free?

How objective is the information?

  1. Are several sides of an issue covered or just one side?
  2. Does the author or sponsor state his/her stand on the issue?
  3. Does the writing feature factual information, personal opinion or propaganda?
  4. Is there any advertising on the page?

What is the structure of the site?

  1. Is it easy to navigate or get around