Evaluation of Websites as Sources

Authority

Is the source identifiable?

Does the author/source have expertise in the subject?

Is there a sponsoring entity affiliated with the site?

*Look for the name of the author or sponsoring entity.

*Is there contact information available?

*Are the credentials or expertise of the source verifiable?

Purpose

The information is being published for a purpose. What is it?

For what audience is the information intended?

*Look for a purpose statement.

*Is there evidence of an implied purpose?

*Consider the intended audience based on content, tone & style.

Accuracy

Is it fact, opinion or propaganda?

Can the source of information be traced and verified?

Is the information supported or substantiated by other sources?

*Look for evidence of a particular perspective or bias.

*Is the information presented in an objective manner or is it designed to provoke a certain response?

*Is there an indication of the origin or source of the information being presented?

*What assumptions are being made?

*Compare this site to other sources of information on the same subject. Is there agreement or disagreement?

*Locate reviews of the website

Nature of the Content

Is it a primary source or a secondary source?

Is it a website, digital book, republication of an article, etc.?

*Is the site reporting original research? Is the research clearly identified? Are the research methods identified?

*Is the information a compilation or analysis of previously published information?

*Is the information something original in its electronic form or a republication of a book or article?

Coverage

How in depth is the subject covered?

What is the scope (limits) of the coverage?

Does the site present new/unique information?

*Is the subject covered in a general/superficial way or is it explored in-depth?

*Is the coverage of the subject limited to a specific time period or area?