Library Orientation: Find Internet Sources

We all know there is a wealth of information available on the Internet.  The problem with searching for information on the Internet is that we don't always know where it comes from and whether or not it is authoritative.  It is important to be selective and to evaluate the information you find online.  Consider the source of the information.

Here is an excellent guide from UC-Berkeley that outlines the most important factors to evaluate:

Evaluating Web Pages:  Techniques to Apply and Questions to Ask

The domain is an extension of a website indicates the type of body who created it; an indicator of credibility. In advanced web search forms, like Google Advanced Search, you can restrict your search to a particular domain. Note that you can only restrict your search to one domain at a time. Here are common domains:

.com - commercial

• Commercial websites - websites that are running for a profit
• Apply caution. Commercial sites are often trying to sell you an idea or a product.

.org - organization

• Tends to refer to non-profit organizations
• Tend to be less biased than commercial sites, however, still apply some caution. Some non-profit organizations provide misinformation. 

.net - network

.edu - education

• Refers to websites from educational institutions, from pre-school to higher education.
• Tends to be less biased, but again, apply some caution. Different education institutions have different philosophies and are promoting theirs, for example, a Montessori school's website. 

.gov - government (US)

• Refers to websites by the US government. 

.mil - military (US)

.int - intergovernmental

Different countries have different extensions.