Internet Research Methodology Carol A. Watson

Debunking the Myth Is everything on the Internet? No, but… Benefits of Internet legal research Many good Internet legal resources Leverage costs of research Collaborate and review similar research Vast array of non-legal materials

“So you ran a web search for it?” “Yes.” “And the word returned hundreds of references, no doubt.” “Thousands.” Kohler said. “Yours, however, contained references to Harvard, Oxford, a reputable publisher, as well as a list of related publications. As a scientist I have come to learn that information is only as valuable as its source. Your credentials seemed authentic.” Excerpt Angels & Demons, Dan Brown

Assessing Information Quality Who said, “Question Authority?” Timothy Leary? Socrates? Unitarian Universalists? Bumper sticker?

Judging Authenticity Look for site documentation About us links View source Web address structure Ask basic questions about the source of information Who is the author?

Determine Accuracy Assess objectivity How does it compare with print resources? Check for errors Verify information

Currency Decide if timeliness is relevant Last updated?

Assess Completeness How comprehensive is the resource? Compare coverage with print resources Watch for selective fact citation

Conclusion Carol A. Watson