The unfiltered and unstable nature of information found on the Web makes the evaluation of online resources a necessity. Like print resources, online resources should be evaluated for the quality of information they provide (the content) and the presentation of that information (the form). The following is a checklist of questions that can assist you in evaluating both the content and form of online resources pertaining to Native American cultures. Write a brief answer (1-2 sentences) to each question.

Author/Site Creator:

Title:

Date of Electronic Publication:

Sponsor Organization:

Date of Access:

URL:

Content

Authority

What is the authority or expertise of the author/site creator (what biographical information, credentials, or tribal affiliations are provided)?

How official, legitimate, or generally trusted is the site (as indicated by its sponsoring organization, tribal authorization, reviews, references)?

Integrity

How accurate is the information on the site (what tribal context, sources, or links to other sites are provided that help you validate its information)?

How current is the information on the site (as indicated by its creation date, updates, revisions, or other maintenance information)?

How comprehensive is the information on the site (as indicated by tribal context, links, scope statement, contents page, or site map)?

How are sacred objects, stories, and spiritual experiences presented (as objects for sale and dissemination or as tribal materials to be presented only in ceremonial contexts)?

Objectivity

What is the purpose of providing the information on the site (e.g., advocacy, marketing, education, news, entertainment)?

Who is the intended audience and how are they addressed (formally/informally, as consumer/visitor/professional/colleague/tribal member)?

What sort of bias if any is evident (as indicated by the content, tone, author, or organization)?

If the site is presented from an insider's point of view, in what ways does the site affirm Native values and tribal experiences?

Form

Design

How does the organization of information (by subject, format, audience) contribute to your understanding?

How are different media (text, graphics, video, audio) integrated to contribute to your understanding?

How do navigational features (index, links, map) help you move around and locate information on the site?

Give examples of design elements (text, images, icons) that are respectful and accurate in their portrayal of Native Americans or disrespectful and stereotypical?

Usability

How do user features (search engines, "help" systems, interactivity) aid you in finding and understanding information on the site?

How well does the resource help you understand the distinctions and complexities of Native American cultures, traditions, and histories?