Procedure for Using Internet Sources
The Internet has a wealth of information about the world around us. Sites spring up and disappear without notice or notification. Anyone has the ability to put information in cyber space. As such, this information knows no bounds - none.

When you browse the Internet looking for information, you must be aware of who is giving you this information. As a student, you need to think strongly about the reliability of the information. You need to consider the author, the ultimate source of the information, and the biases inherent in the information. All these need to be researched before you should allow yourself to cite the source and use the information.

Some things to keep in mind when considering the validity of the source:

The Author

1. Does the page list the author?
2. Does the page list the author's credentials?
3. Does the author have necessary credentials?
4. Is there an email address so you can email the author?

The Publisher

1. Does the page list the organization that published this information?
2. Does that organization have any overwhelming biases?
3. Is the organization well known and respected?
4. Is there an email address listed for more information?

The Web Page

1. Does the page look professionally done?
2. Are there many typographical, grammatical, spelling, or other style errors?
3. Is the publication date listed (or last updated date)?
4. Is the method given for how the information was gathered?
5. Is there a bibliography provided?

The URL

1. What type of site is this (educational, governmental, commercial)?
2. Is this a personal web site or an official site?
3. Do official sites link to this page?