Hi Ms. Sue,
Where can I find information determining which sources are reliable for example a web site.
Please let me know..
Here are two of the really good websites I've found on evaluating online information:
http://lib.nmsu.edu/instruction/eval.html
Read the Criteria section first; then try the Examples.
http://hanlib.sou.edu/searchtools/evaluate.html
from http://hanlib.sou.edu/searchtools/
Hi there! To determine the reliability of a website or any source of information, you can follow these steps:
1. Evaluate the domain: Start by examining the domain name of the website. Reliable websites often have a domain that ends in .gov, .edu, or .org, indicating that they are government, educational, or nonprofit organizations respectively. These domains generally offer credible information.
2. Check the author and credentials: Look for information about the author or organization behind the website. Verify their expertise and credentials in the related field. A reputable author will often have their qualifications or bio available on the site.
3. Review the content and citation: Analyze the content of the website and check for proper citations and references. Reliable sources provide accurate and up-to-date information. If the site contains sources or references, explore them to determine their credibility as well.
4. Assess the bias and objective: Consider the website's bias and objective. All sources have some level of bias, but reliable sources strive to present information objectively and have verifiable evidence to support their claims. Be cautious of websites that exhibit a strong bias, as they may present distorted information.
5. Examine the design and functionality: Evaluate the design and functionality of the website. Reliable sources often invest in a professional-looking layout, easy navigation, and regularly updated content. A poorly designed or outdated website may be an indication of unreliable information.
6. Cross-reference with other sources: Check if the information provided on the website is supported or contradicted by other reliable sources. Cross-referencing helps validate the information and ensures it is not an isolated or biased viewpoint.
Remember, these steps are general guidelines, and it is essential to use critical thinking and judgment when evaluating the reliability of any source of information.