Evaluating Websites

Evaluating Websites

Many students will use the internet for research purposes whether it is for general knowledge or for a school assignment among others.  For research to be deemed credible and authentic students must understand and know what websites are credible and reliable.  The NDSS Learning Commons staff believes in following the C.R.A.A.P test when evaluation websites. Here is the criterial for the C.R.A.A.P. test for website evaluation:

Currrency of Information
– When was the information posted?
– How often is the information revised or updated?
– If there are links, do they work?
– Is the website current enough for your topic?

Relevance of Information
– Does the information relate to your topic?
– Is the information appropriate for high school content?
– Is there enough information on the site to meet your needs?

Authority
– Who is the author or publisher?
– Are there any qualifications given by the author to write on the topic?
– Is there contact information?
– What does the web address say about the author?
.gc.ca – Canadian government site                    .ca – Canadian site
.gov – American government site                        .org – Organization site
.edu – College/University site

Accuracy of Information
– Is the information provided supported with evidence?
– Are there obvious spelling, punctuation or grammatical errors?

Purpose of Information
– Is the information based on facts or opinions?
– Is the purpose of the information to persuade, sell or entertain?

Taken from Meriam Library at California State University