BILS: Finding info on the Web

The Internet is an incredible resource, but should be used with caution. Review what we covered in the Selecting sources section:

Start with the library     Start with the Web

Evaluating Internet Sources

You should always evaluate information, but especially if it comes from the Interent! Think about these questions:

• Who governs the Internet?
• Who checks to make sure websites contain accurate information?
• Who checks for currency on the Interent?
• Who checks for objectivity?

The answer to these questions is usually no one! So, it's up to you to evaluate your sources.

Criteria for evaluation

• Accuracy Do you have doubts about the accuracy of the information you are viewing? Do you think you should corroborate your information with another source?
• Authority Who is the author of the information and what are his/her credentials and experience? If there is no individual's name, is there an organization or other group responsible for the site?
• Currency Do you see a date on the website? Will the accuracy of the information presented be affected if it is 5 years old?
• Coverage/Purpose Why is this information being presented (to sell products, entertain, inform, educate)? Who is the intended audience?
• Objectivity Is the author or the author's organization biased? Does the coverage represent both sides of the issues? What is the tone?