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The web is a wonderful invention. It connects people all over the world with unbelievable amounts of information. However, unlike most books, anyone can publish to the Web. Most people don't think about where the information comes from or how reliable it is. For that reason it is important to 'test' the websites you use. It doesn't mean that the information you find is not useable unless its published by a 'recognised' authority, but is does mean that when using information you consider it in the light of who put it on the Web, why they put it on the Web and how accurately they have researched their information or how honestly they have acknowledged their position.

The following questions are used to 'test' websites. After working through the questions you need to reconsider the value of the site.

Context

• Include the name of the electronic text.
• Include the name of the publisher.
• Identify the intended audience.

Purpose

• To what extent is the purpose clearly communicated and worthwhile?
• Is the intended meaning clear?

Validity & reliability

• Consider the authority, age, accuracy, verification, bias of the text. To what extent do the author, sponsor and publisher give this text credibility?

Originality & creativity

• To what extent does the text demonstrate innovative and unique ideas, approaches, techniques?

Screen design

• Consider the text: its readability, graphics, sound, colour, navigation. To what extent are the visual and auditory elements combined in a cohesive and continuous manner?

Aesthetics

• To what extent does the text impact on the audience as intended?
• To what extent do communication styles, tone and expression shape the message and support the purpose?

Personal response

• What did you like or dislike about the piece?
• What suggestions do you have to improve it?
• What were its strengths and weaknesses?