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Anthropology M02: Cultural Anthropology - Barbier: Using the Web

A library research guide for students of Cultural Anthropology M02

Domain Names

Limiting your search to specific domains can remove some of the less reputable websites from your Google searches. Note: .edu and .org sites more than likely will NOT count as scholarly sources for this course. 

.com - commercial or business

.edu - educational institution

.org - organization (often non-profit)

.gov - government organization

Website Evaluation

(based on Kathy Shrock's guide to evaluation)

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  • Can you find the author?
  • Is the contact information provided correct?
  • Does the author have any credentials?
  • What makes the author an expert?

  • What is the purpose of the site? 
  • What type of audience is your article written for (general public, students, experts)? 

  

  • When was the story posted? 
  • When was the last update to the website?
  • Does your topic require current information? 

 

  • Where did the information come from? 
  • Is the information linked to any organizations that may demonstrate a bias?
  • Does the source present fact or opinion?

 

  • Why is this information useful for my research?
  • Why should I use this? Can you verify that this is a credible source? 
  • How in depth is the material? Is it basic informative information you can get anywhere?