It's Online, but Is It On Target?

Part 2

Research with Attitude

Conduct your research with the attitude of of skeptic. as you examine websites for clues that they're trustworthy, ask these questions:

• Who wrote the Web page? If you can’t identify the individual or organization responsible for the information, don’t use it.

•        What are the author’s qualifications for writing the subject?

•        Has the article passed through an editorial process designed to ensure quality and accuracy?

•        What is the website’s purpose? Look for motives—like selling products or winning votes—that could result in biased or incomplete information.

•        Is the information accurate? Is it up to date?

•        Where did the author get this information?