Q. How do I evaluate web sites?

• Check the Author's Expertise: Look for the author's credentials and employment details, often listed under contact information or at the bottom of the page.

• Identify the Target Audience: Determine if the material is intended for academics or laypersons.

• Verify Accuracy: Compare the information with other sources to ensure consistency and look for documentation such as a bibliography or references.

• Assess Currency: Check the date the web page was last updated to ensure the material is current.

• Evaluate Relevance: Ensure the material is directly related to your research topic and avoid content that is too general or trivial.

• Detect Bias: Check if the material presents all sides of an issue or only one perspective.

• Consult with Your Professor: If you are still unsure, discuss the website with your professor before including information in a paper or project.

Additional Tips:

• Check the Domain: Websites with domains like .edu, .gov, or .org are generally more reliable.
• Look for Contact Information: Reliable websites often provide detailed contact information.
• Examine the Design and Functionality: Professional and well-maintained websites are often more trustworthy.
• Read User Reviews: Look for feedback from other users to gauge the website's credibility.
• Use Library Resources: Libraries often provide access to tools and databases that can help you evaluate the credibility of websites.