PURPOSE
A good web page states its purpose, preferably in a brief statement at the beginning of the page. Basically, web pages are designed to
HOW CAN YOU TELL THE DIFFERENCE?
Web pages that are designed to INFORM or EXPLAIN should present an objective, balanced viewpoint. Web pages that are designed to PERSUADE will promote a particular point of view, will be issue-oriented, might use emotional appeals, and usually don't fully provide both sides of an argument or controversy. Other questions to ponder: What types of sites are linked? Is there advertising on the site? Who is the intended audience?
An awareness of authorship or sponsorship allows the researcher to make an informed decision when using resources.
NEXT: Whose side are you on? Trying to determine the purpose behind Internet information.