Evaluating Websites
Because so much information is now available online, websites are a huge category. Take time to evaluate information you find online.
- Government websites use the .gov domain
- Science websites may use .edu, but they might also use .com or .org. .com and .org are not necessarily good or bad - you'll really need to pay attention to the information quality to prove your source is credible and scientific.
- Who is the author? What are their credentials?
- The government agency or educational/science organization should be easy to spot
- Google the organization - they should have a website, Wikipedia page, and be referenced in other sources
- Google the author
- Pay careful attention to the date
- Google a few things about the article or click around on the website
- Consider the length and scope. Is this a short pamphlet or a lengthy scientific article? Is it meant for quick facts, new info, or to argue a point?
- Advanced Google SearchUse the "site or domain" search box to search within only .edu or .gov websites. You can also use the "any of these words" search box to search for multiple possible terms, such as the common and scientific name of your organism.
AZA
- Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA)Use this website to complete part 3 of your research assignment!
Other Useful Websites
- Find a SpeciesFrom the US Fish & Wildlife Service. Search by common or scientific name and find more information about your animal species.
- Maryland's Wildlife SpeciesFrom the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
- ScienceQuality science news articles from trusted journalists and contributing editors, many of whom are working scientists and professors.
