Glossary of Terms-Evaluating Websites

*RELIABILIITY-to what extent can we count on the information provided at this site? Is the source trustworthy? How did they come up with the information listed here? Do they cite sources? Did they follow good research procedures? Do they have a bias? A reason to distort? Is this advertising? AN adverrtorial? What are they selling?

*ACCURACY-Are these real numbers and facts? Do they match reality? How do we know they are real and on target?

*CURRENCY-How recent are the facts and figures? Were they gathered ten years ago? Do they tell us? Does it matter? Might crime or employment have changed since then?

*AUTHORITY-Do they have any credentials to be providing this informatin? Any evidence of training or professional skill? Do they identify the author or provider by name? Who did this work?

*FAIRNESS-Have they presented the material selectively or in an unbalanced manner? Is their bias or slanting in the reporting? Did they leave some information out? Did they focus only on the positive? the negative?

*ADEQUACY-Do they tell you enough? Do they provide sufficient data or evidence? Do they go into enough detail and depth?

*EFFICIENCY-Can you find what you need at this site relatively quickly or is it loaded down with graphics and elements which prolong your visit and your searching unnecssarily?

*ORGANIZATION-Is the information laid out in a logical fashion so that you can easily locate what you need without wandering around and wasting time?