1. Credible Research Sources

2. Internet Research: What’s credible?

3. Internet Research The Internet is unregulated
Website credibility varies widely
Types of sites can include
.com - .net
.gov - .mil
.edu - .int
.org

4. What to look for… Determine the site’s author and purpose
Assess the quality of information provided
Read the site’s privacy policy and disclaimer statement

5. Author & Purpose Look for sites that clearly state the site’s purpose
“About Us” section
Read mission, goals and purpose
Advocacy sites could be biased
Is there contact information readily available?
.com = commerce – best to avoid in research

6. Quality of Information
Timeliness
How current is this information?
Is the site updated regularly?
Content
Are there spelling errors?
Is info supported by sources?
Does it seem biased?
Avoid sites with a lot of ads or sign-in requirements

7. Privacy Policy & Disclaimer
Privacy Policies
Help you understand the level of ownership the author claims for the content within
Lets you know how your personal information will be used
Disclaimer
A notice posted on a website explaining what the owner does and does not guarantee in regard to the sites’ content
"The information presented on this Web site should not take the place of legal or medical advice."

8. How to Find Credible Web Sites
Be careful about using search engines
They use special formulas based on site popularity and key words, NOT credibility
Reputable sources (still be wary!)
Government agencies (.gov)
Educational institutions (.edu)
National organizations (.org)
Military organizations (.mil)

9. Sources http://olrs.ohio.gov/asp/olrs_Quality.asp
Memorial- Library/webevaluation/webeval.htm