When attempting to determine a site's credibility, one of the first things a person (student) should do is scroll to the bottom of the webpage and find material which identifies credentials, such as organizational affiliation. With this information, a student can perform a general internet search and research the organization, group, or person responsible for the website being viewed. This information can reveal a great deal of information, especially if another group or person has already reviewed the website's credibility and has published some type of critique.
Another way to determine credibility, is to analyze the content of the website for references to original sources supporting the information presented. If sources are reported, the student should attempt to find these sources and further analyze them for credibility. While analyzaing content, everyone should read and consider the information objectively. The purpose of the website should be considered as should the possibility of inherent and blatant biases.
A key to legitimating information is to verfity it through multiple sources. So, if a website suggests a detail as a fact, it should be possible to verify that information through another source.
*Also, the extension or "upper level domain" is a general indicator of a website's credibility. It is important to never assume credibility. Always verify information.
Today in class we discussed the importance of determining website credibility. Over the course of my academic career, I have developed several methods for attempting to determine the credibility of websites which I have utilized. The most important method is triangulation. Triangulation is the method of verifying information through multiple sources to ensure accuracy and credibility. Credibility and informational accuracy are very important for academic success and effectiveness. The ability of students to determine credibility is essential both for their individual academic success and development of personal understanding through their general use of the internet.
Something that I found new that I didn't think of when looking for credibility of a website was to actually look up the author/group/organization/writer of the website. I see how this can be very helpful. If you can find information from more than one source about the author/writer I feel that it should be a legitimate site. I think that it is important for people to review a website so you can see if other people found it useful or not. I don't usually use a website if other people haven't found it useful.
ReplyDeleteNikki: I appreciate your post. When considering a source, I nearly always search the author in an attempt to glean more information. Your post clearly shows your understanding of the importance of properly verifying information before utilization.
ReplyDeleteOh, and thanks for the double tap. I was at fist excited because I had two posts.