Evaluating Information ...

I think I informally evaluate information based on how up-to-date the information is (especially important for travel information), the reliability of the author, and the manner in which it is presented. If the information is presented in an unclear or haphazard way, I am likely to dismiss it and move on to the next source. If it is well-organized, free from error, and seemingly unbiased, I evaluate the source as more reliable.

Below is an evaluation form that I used to evaluate a website I wanted to use for this project. After using this form, I was happy to see that the results were the same as my informal assessment of the website. I determined that this is a reliable source of information.

Web Page Evaluation Form

Updated from work originally created at Ligon Middle School in collaboration with ExplorIs.

Title of Web Page: Chicago Traveler

URL: http://www.chicagotraveler.com/kids-things-to-do.htm

Topic or Focus: Fun for kids in Chicago

Instructions: Rate each answer from 0 - 4. (4 points = highest rating.) See Scale below.
Navigation and Presentation:
___4__ 1.Is each section of the page labeled with a topic or section heading?
___4__ 2. Does the page load quickly?
___4__ 3. Are the pictures on the page helpful and clearly related to the subject? (Take off points for too many animated graphics or unrelated images).
___4__ 4. Are there clearly marked buttons and links that transport you to locations within the site and allow you to find your way quickly to information you need?
___4__ 5. Is the page clearly labeled with the author's name or the sponsoring organization and contact information? (Hint: Check the bottom of the page or look for "About Us" or "Who We Are.")
__20_ Total

Content

___4__ 6. Does the information appear to be error-free? (No errors in spelling, sentence structure, content, etc.)
___3__ 7. Does the information appear to be up-to-date? (Check last update, often found at the bottom of the page.)
___4__ 8. Does the site include links to appropriate sites outside this page? Are these links marked in any way to indicate when you are leaving the original site?
___4__ 9. Does the content have some educational value? Would it reinforce or enhance information taught in the classroom?
___15__ Total

Appropriateness
___4__ 10. Is the content appropriate for classroom research? (Hint: Items that are inappropriate include profanity, nudity, undue violence, etc.)
___4__ 11. Is the vocabulary appropriate for students? (Hint: Is the language similar to your text books or other classroom materials?)
___8__ Total

Scope and Validity
___4__ 12. Is the content sufficient to cover the topic adequately? If not, are there links to other useful resources?
___3__ 13. Is the content unique, fresh, or new? Is the information something not easily found elsewhere?
___3__ 14. Can you find evidence of the author's credentials, background, education, or authority? What special training or education qualifies the author to create this page? (Hint: Look for links - "About us," "Who We Are," "Editors," etc.)
__10___Total

___53_____Grand Total

Is this page a reliable, valid source of information? Use the scale below.
Scale:
Excellent = 52 - 56 (This site is a valid source of information)
Good = 48 - 55
Fair = 40 - 47
Poor = Below 40