In the busy world of an educator's trying to keep up with the technology, it is important to evaluate web sites before they are used by students.  This likens itself to the librarian years ago promoting the previewing of films before the teachers would use them with their classes.  It is an age-old mission that really hasn't changed much over the years.  No one wants to be confronted by the "surprises" that may occur when traveling the uncharted course to new territory!  Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be the time to stay "on top" of the technology.  Schools need to provide teachers with professional development time to enable them to accomplish the task of web evaluations and curriculum development.

In addition, students also need to become critical "miners" of the web.  While there's plenty of information "out there," the students don't realize how easily the information, sometimes biased, erroneous or unreliable, can be posted.  They need to utilize these evaluation skills so they are able to survive in the Information Age.  By default, it appears to be the responsibility of the schools to teach this skill.

Many sites provide excellent guidelines that make it easier for the teacher to accomplish the tasks of both evaluating the sites and  in educating the students to carry out the task as well.  Here are some of the best ones:

Kathy Schrock's Guide for Educators
Critical Evaluation Surveys are provided for the different grade levels.  The middle school form includes questions about the Internet connection, web browser and the URL.
        •Elementary School Level
        •Middle School Level
        •Secondary School Level
        •Virtual Tours

What's Good on the Web?
Check out the "Good Site" Criteria to determine what makes a good site from WNET in New York.  Evaluation questions are provided with detailed explanations.

Evaluation Rubrics for Websites
•Web Evaluation for Primary Grades: Using 25 points, young children can begin learning how to assess the content of Internet information.
•Web Evaluation for Intermediate Grades:This 50 point evaluation guide, is a step up from the primary rubric.
•Web Evaluation for Secondary Grades: Using 100 points, students can use this evaluation tool to assess website content.