Evaluating & Using Internet Resources

When using the Internet for research, it is important to evaluate the information found there. The main reason for this is that the information put on the Internet is governed by no one and often, though believable, is not always true. Even legitimate organizations could present biased or prejudiced information. This often happens because, unlike print resources, information found on the Internet is not always reviewed before being published.

The domain of Internet resources can help in the evaluation process. Using the address (Uniform Resource Locator – URL), can help determine the kind of organization that has published the information. The last part of the URL determines the domain of the site. Below are some of the most common domains used today:

• .com – Commercial organizations or businesses
• .edu – Educational and research institutions
• .gov – Government agencies
• .mil – Military agencies
• .net – Network centers or Internet service providers
• .org – Other organizations, usually non-profit
• .int – International organizations

Using an .edu, .gov, or .mil URL generally provides information that is reliable and relevant.

The following evaluation criteria should be used when researching Internet sources:

• Accuracy – Is the information reliable and error-free? Has it been verified?
• Authority – Is the author qualified? An expert?
• Objectivity – Is the information biased?
• Currency – When was the information last updated?
• Coverage – What topics are covered and how in-depth is the coverage?

More information about evaluating Internet sources can be found at this address: http://lib.nmsu.edu/instruction/evalcrit.html