Library Research Using the WWW (World Wide Web)An Introduction

The Internet Vs. the WebThe Internet is not the WWWThe net is a network of computers linked together across the globe, through the use of telecommunications protocols (rules)Other Terms for the internet: cyberspace or Information Superhighway

Basic 4Functions of the NetEmailNewsgroups, listservs etc.World Wide Web (WWW)File Transfers (FTP)Our focus is on using the web for research

Critically Evaluating WebsitesWhy bother?Employers are looking for those who can use the internet to solve problems, sell products, and do researchAnyone can place information out on the web

DefinitionsComputer Literacy: being able to use a computer and computer software to complete tasksInformation Literacy: to know when you need information and to know how to locate, evaluate and use that information to solve the problem at handTechnology Literacy: being able to use the internet to effectively access and communicate information

5 Steps of Website EvaluationAuthorityAccuracyObjectivityCurrencyCoverage

AuthorityDoes the website have a clear owner?Are they qualified? Is the person an expert in the field?Look for Phds and associations

Check the bottom of the page for this information!

Exampleshttp://www.oncolink.com/This site is authoritative http://www.whitehouse.org/This is a parody site it is not authoritative!

AccuracyCan this information be verified by other sources (articles, books)Are spelling, grammar accurateAre the facts consistent through outDo other appropriate websites link to this one?

Examplewww.exxon.comThis site is accurate (companys main site)http://iml.jou.ufl.edu/projects/Spring01/Hogue/exxon.htmlInaccurate site

ObjectivityIf the website doesnt show a preference for one view point over another it is neutral or objectiveLook for author of site trying to sell you something and facts that seem to be missing

Exampleshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Same-sex_marriage_in_the_United_StatesUnbiasedhttp://www.nogaymarriage.com/biased

Is it Current??Is the website updated regularly?When was it created?Be sure to check for news articles and acknowledgement of visitors (counters)

Exampleshttp://weddings.theknot.com/weddingdress/bs_main.aspx?gowntype=1 currenthttp://www.weddinggowndress.com/Out of date

CoverageWhat is the purpose of the site?

How in depth is material on the site

Exampleshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TiggerHistory about the character from AA Milnes Storieshttp://emeri0.tripod.com/tigger/This page is for entertainment only

Connecting the DotsDomain suffixes Usually found at the end of a URL or email addressUsed to identify a website category such as a school or a business

Common Domain Suffixes.edu (used for USA educational sites.gov (US government site).net (Internet administrative sites).int (international institutions).org (organization websites).mil (US military website).web (sites about the www).com (commercial sites).store (retail business)

Citing Web PagesMLAL.Douglas Wilder Library and Learning Resource Center. Ed. VUU Library Webmaster. 16 Jun. 2006. Virginia Union University. 19 Jun. 2006.