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What have I learned about website evaluation?
Essentially that it is an art more than a science. Harris (2018) espouses a skeptical attitude towards the authenticity of a website and not to be deceived by a professional-looking interface. The acronym CARS
C-credibility
A-Accuracy
R-Reasonableness
S-Support
is useful in guiding TLs in making an informed decision about a website recommendation. In terms of reliability, a trusted source is invaluable. My go to for reliability of educational websites is Scootle. A team of experts from Education Services Australia curate this online resource and are pre-evaluating websites for teachers. Grade levels, curriculum areas, matching outcomes and topics are determined by professionals. Time strapped TLs and teachers should be using Scootle extensively.
Students are well prepared to begin the task of writing responses if they have refined the sites to use. A full understanding of the task, critical analysis of information sources including reliability considerations support students well to succeed.
Reliability criteria questions
Is the URL from a reliable/recognisable site?
Can I learn about the author of a site?
Has the author produced other sites?
Is there a date and is the date recently updated?
Are there links to other sites?
Are there reviews connected with the site?
Is the tone of language professional/neutral or persuasive?
Do other sites show similar views or theories?
What is the reading level of the site?
Harris, R. (2018). Evaluating Internet research sources. Virtual Salt. http://www.virtualsalt.com/evalu8it.htm
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