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Library Research Using the WWW (World Wide Web)An Introduction
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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
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Basic 4Functions of the NetEmailNewsgroups, listservs etc.World Wide Web (WWW)File Transfers (FTP)Our focus is on using the web for research
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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
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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
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5 Steps of Website EvaluationAuthorityAccuracyObjectivityCurrencyCoverage
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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!
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Exampleshttp://www.oncolink.com/This site is authoritative http://www.whitehouse.org/This is a parody site it is not authoritative!
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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?
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Examplewww.exxon.comThis site is accurate (companys main site)http://iml.jou.ufl.edu/projects/Spring01/Hogue/exxon.htmlInaccurate site
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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
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Exampleshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Same-sex_marriage_in_the_United_StatesUnbiasedhttp://www.nogaymarriage.com/biased
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Is it Current??Is the website updated regularly?When was it created?Be sure to check for news articles and acknowledgement of visitors (counters)
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Exampleshttp://weddings.theknot.com/weddingdress/bs_main.aspx?gowntype=1 currenthttp://www.weddinggowndress.com/Out of date
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CoverageWhat is the purpose of the site?
How in depth is material on the site
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Exampleshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TiggerHistory about the character from AA Milnes Storieshttp://emeri0.tripod.com/tigger/This page is for entertainment only
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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
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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)
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Citing Web PagesMLAL.Douglas Wilder Library and Learning Resource Center. Ed. VUU Library Webmaster. 16 Jun. 2006. Virginia Union University. 19 Jun. 2006.