Think critically about web sites and print resources.

Is it Appropriate?

What type of Information is it?  Popular,  trade, or scholarly?

• Audience:  Who is the intended audience?
• Content/purpose:  Is the source for academic purposes or entertainment?

Currency:  What is the publication date or when was the website  last updated?

• Does this matter for your topic or affect the  information?

 Is it Credible?

Authority: What are the author's credentials and reputation?

• Do they have  education, experience, and expertise in the field?
• Do they work for a reputable institution or organization?

Validity: Are assumptions and opinions stated as facts?

• Are there references to  other works that support the information?
• Is the evidence reliable, sensible, and  accessible?
• Is this information unique or has it been copied?

Bias:  Is the information neutral or slanted?

• Does it promote the ideas of  a particular group (religious, political, etc.)?
• Does the author have an agenda  beyond education or information?
• Does the publisher/organization have a specific agenda?
• Are diverse perspectives represented?
• Is anything being sold?