Accuracy
Is the material current, factual and comprehensive?
Obviously no one source can give you all the information about a topic,
but a source that leaves out important
information may be attempting to mislead you.
Look for a source that is correct today (ongoing research can change what
is considered accurate), a source that
gives specifics rather than unsupported generalizations,
and a source that attempts to include a range of detail.
Reasonableness
Is the material objective and reasoned? Does it
acknowledge other points of view in a balanced manner and avoid logical
fallacies? A site that uses language
which is inflammatory or has a slanted tone is likely
to be attempting to focus your attention on an emotional reaction rather
than on a well considered presentation
of fact. Does the information seem believable? If
not, you should double check it against other sources. Look for a source
that engages the subject thoughtfully, a
source that is concerned with a balanced view of
the material.
Credibility
Does the site show evidence that it relies on known
or respected authority or is supported by a credible organization? A site
that gives information about the
credentials of the author or provides details about
the reputation of the organization shows concern about demonstrating reliability.
Writing that is relatively error
free is another clue. Most educated people are careful
to review their writing for mechanical or grammatical problems. Numerous
errors may indicate the source
is questionable. Look for an authoritative
source, a source that supplies some valid evidence that allows you to trust
it.
Support
Does the site list sources and contact information,
provide corroborating evidence, and support claims by documenting
where the information came from?
Corporate sites, for example, usually make claims
based on marketing considerations rather than objective fact, so make sure
you check such claims against
information from other sources. If you can’t find
at least three sources that agree, you should investigate further before
you come to any conclusions. You will
want to find out what the range of opinions is or
why experts disagree. Look for a source that provides convincing evidence
for claims, a source that provides
information you can find reiterated in other places.