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"Separating Web Fact from Fiction"
April 8, 2000
Jessie Coffey
The Internet has become a popular research tool, a source of current information worldwide on almost any subject imaginable.
But it is largely uncensored and like any other information resource can be the source of untruths and exaggerations as well as beneficial information.
How can one tell if the information is as reliable as a trusted traditional source? Sometimes deciding which online information to trust is just a matter of good sense.
Information from the Revenue Canada web site is obviously more reliable to answer your taxation questions than a page entitled "Slippery Bob's Loopholes."
However, appearances can be deceiving. Visually judging online research presents a problem because pages containing erroneous information can be designed to look professional.
Despite the initial problem there is no need to abandon online research. Instead one needs only to follow a few guidelines to critically analyze online information.
It is necessary to first evaluate the content of the site. In doing so, consider the site's purpose and intended audience, as well as how the information might compare to a more traditional print source.
The source of the information should also be considered. A page which clearly identifies the creator and provides a method of contact, preferably both electronic and postal, and which gives details of the creator's background and level of expertise is more reliable than a site that gives no clue as to its origin.
Does the author or organization have a particular bias that may alter the reliability, accuracy, and objectivity of the information?
For example, a page run by a tobacco company may underplay potential health risks while an anti-smoking group may exaggerate the dangers.
In order to find the most recent information, an online researcher needs to consider when the information was written, when it was posted and when it was last revised. A trustworthy source will provide this information up front.
While it seems like a lot to remember, evaluating online information requires only practice and common sense.
The benefits of accurate, up-to-date, easy to access information are well worth the extra effort a bit of critical analysis requires.
A complete set of guidelines that detail a number of things to be considered when critically analyzing an online source is available at http://www.library.ucla.edu/libraries/college/instruct/web/critical.htm
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