Web evaluation 

Now that we are living in an ever changing world, technology is viewed as the most resourceful tool in keeping up with the pace. Without the use of technology, communication would be limited to using mail for delivery and encyclopedias for research. Technology has improved the way we communicate and find information for research, the information is not always valid. Unfortunately, for those of us who use the internet for shopping, research, or reading articles of personal interest the information is not treated the same as a your magazine or book. While such literature is reviewed by an editorial staff, internet literature or information can be published by anyone. 

 It is the sole responsible for an individual to select the true and valid information in the world of academics. In order to check whether the information is reliable or not, there are five criteria to look upon it.  The criteria are accuracy, authority, objectivity, currency and coverage. I am going to give a brief explanation base on the above mentioned criteria. 

 Accuracy of Web Documents

• Who wrote the page and can you contact him or her?
• What is the purpose of the document and why was it produced?
• Is this person qualified to write this document?

Accuracy Make

•  sure author provides e-mail or a contact address/phone number.
• Know the distinction between author and Webmaster.

Authority of Web Documents

• Who published the document and is it separate from the "Webmaster?"
• Check the domain of the document, what institution publishes this document?
• Does the publisher list his or her qualifications?

Authority

• What credentials are listed for the authors)?
• Where is the document published? Check URL domain.

 Objectivity of Web Documents

• What goals/objectives does this page meet?
• How detailed is the information?
• What opinions (if any) are expressed by the author?

Objectivity

• Determine if page is a mask for advertising; if so information might be biased.
• View any Web page as you would an infomercial on television. Ask yourself why was this written and for whom?

 Currency of Web Documents

• When was it produced?
• When was it updated'
• How up-to-date are the links (if any)?

Currency

• How many dead links are on the page?
• Are the links current or updated regularly?
• Is the information on the page outdated?

Coverage of the Web Documents

• Are the links (if any) evaluated and do they complement the documents' theme?
• Is it all images or a balance of text and images?
• Is the information presented cited correctly?

Coverage

• If page requires special software to view the information, how much are you missing if you don't have the software?
• Is it free or is there a fee, to obtain the information?
• Is there an option for text only, or frames, or a suggested browser for better viewing?