Olds College Library

Evaluating Internet Resources

Is this a Good Web Site?

Evaluating Web sites is similar to evaluating information in a book or journal article. However, information on the Web is more diverse in content and format and requires some special considerations. This document gives you some guidelines to follow. The more points that describe the Web site, the more likely the information is useful as an academic source.

  1. Authority

    • Anyone can publish on the Web – don’t believe everything you read!
    • Can the author be identified?
    • Can the author be contacted?
    • Have the author’s credentials/qualifications been listed?

  2. Objectivity

    • The Web may function as a soapbox. Often, only one side of an issue is presented.
    • Are the goals/aims of the author clearly stated?
    • Does the author acknowledge alternative versions of the issue or facts?
    • The author is NOT just trying to “sell” you something.

  3. Currency

    • Dates are not often given and/or may have various meanings.
    • Can you tell when the site was created?
    • Can you tell when the site was last updated?
    • Is this site recent enough for your field of study?

  4. Accuracy

    • There are no standards or guarantees on the Web to ensure accuracy.
    • Have the sources been clearly cited so that you can easily find them (and check them)?
    • Can you verify the information in another format (in print)?

  5. Coverage

    • Information on the Web is intended for many audiences – you need to determine whether the information is presented at an appropriate level for an academic paper.
    • What is the purpose of the Web site and is it clearly stated?
    • Is the Web site appropriate for a college-level course?
    • How comprehensive is the coverage?