It’s online, but is it on target?

Part 2

Research with attitude

Conduct your research with the attitude of a skeptic. As you examine websites for clues that they’re trustworthy, ask three questions:

·         Who wrote the webpage? 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 on the subject?

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

·         What is the website’s purpose? Look for motivates – 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?

Choose the right.