Evaluating credibility of academic websites for research

Internet Research

Research Process Steps:

Develop Search Vocabulary

Find Background Information

Find Current and Specific Information: Library Databases

Find Detailed and Historical Information: Library Catalog

Find Current and Specific Information: The Internet

Cite Sources

Distance Learner Services:

Search library databases

Apply for library card

Search library catalog

Request delivery of Truxal Library book

Request interlibrary loan item

Search catalogs of other Maryland libraries

Get help with research assignment

E-mail or call librarians

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Determining credibility of Web site sources:

The first step to determining the credibility of a Web site source is the authority and reliability of its authorship. Ideally the author(s) should be unbiased and users should be able to contact the author to verify information. Author expertise in a related field helps determine credibility. Second, the material contained on the Web site should be clear, factual, and original. Third, the site should be relatively easy to navigate. The site should also be presented well using good graphics and if possible or necessary, include an internal search engine. It should also be easy to determine what the target audience for the sight might be.

The Web site might have costs associated with membership. If so, non-members should have access to at least some of the information contained on the site. If registration and fees are required, members should receive continually updated quality information. The Web site should be consistent, and should also offer content in formts other than HTML.

4. Analysis of Lynn Tracey's Chemistry Web site

Lynn Tracey is an actual professor who also has a PhD in her chosen field. Therefore, authorship is presented clearly and shows that the author of the site is a credible expert even though the site is titled as her "home page." Moreover, users can contact Lynn Tracey with any questions related to the content contained on the Webs site, which increases the author's credibility.

The content contained on the Web site is presented in a unique way. Much of the Web site is for students who need to look up their course syllabi. Assignments, readings, and other classroom materials are also offered by Tracey on her Web site. There is no fee to access the site and registration is not required. Materials are presented in multiple formats including PDF files and text files too. The material is also updated regularly and navigation around the Web site is easy because it is a simple and straightforward site to use.