Memorandum: Criteria for Evaluating Web Sites

MEMORANDUM

To: All English 114-401 students and instructor, Scott Temple

From: Group 3 students - Katie Key, Jonathan Maness, Rocelle Sweezy, Reggie Ledford

Date: September 18, 2011

Subject: Important criteria for evaluating any website

Finding information on the web can be a fulfilling or frustrating experience. Because anyone can publish anything on the web, you will undoubtedly uncover websites that carry inaccurate, biased, misleading, outdated, or mean-spirited information. Use these important criteria to help you determine if the sources you find are accurate and reliable. To illustrate these criteria, we will examine the WebMD site at www.webmd.com.

* Credibility

The "board-certified" medical contributors to the WebMD site are introduced in the "About WebMD" link at the bottom of the home page. The WebMD content staff consists of award-winning journalism experts. There is much evidence of positive peer evaluation on the discussion board located on the site.

* Accuracy

WebMD is committed to providing "accurate, clear, and error-free information to help their readers make informed health and wellness decisions." The wealth of medical information provided is complete and clear. Other viewpoints are welcomed.

* Reasonableness

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All information presented on WebMD is objective and fair. HTop of Form

* elping readers understand medical conditions is of great concern to the contributors. This is apparent in the truthful, informative approach evident throughout the site.

* Support

WebMD provides ample support for all information presented. Sources are listed at the bottom of the homepage and thoughout the site. Links are provided for related articles.

* Design and Technology

All pictures on WebMD are relevant and clear. The text and pictures stand...