Interesting.... that is the first word that comes to mind when I did the assignment on the critical evaluation of a web site. A couple of things come to mind.
1. I don't know of too many teachers that have the time to go through the evaluation check-off list with every website that they direct themselves or their students to.
2. However, with that being said, it was interesting to do this activity with the webpages that were given to us. It became apparent that it is very important for students and educators to become more aware of the validity of their webpages.
The first webpage had me going for a little bit. Because Martin Luther was such an important key person in our history, one would imagine that it would be true facts. However, it was hosted by "Stormfront - White Pride" group. The #$ letters in the swear words also gave me a "heads up".
It was interesting that one of the questions on the check-off list for educators was whether or not the address ended in things like, k12, edu, org, gov....and this one did - but it didn't mean that it was a good resource for students to use.
It reminded me that just like youtube, teachers must preview the webpages and maybe "guide" the students through webpages where we would like them to go - especially as beginners at the computer/ipad.
I also feel as though students are not as skilled as what they need to be with internet searches. I think many students feel as though they are webpages that are valid - especially if THEY search and it comes up. Our computer teacher does several lessons on choosing "appropriate and helpful" websites. I think this has to happen a lot more than what is currently happening, but then again, I think teachers/educators also need to be instructed on this more than they currently are.
I think in order to get our students ready in the 21st century - this day and age of technology and all the ways that it is integrated into our lives, it must be shown to them the importance of really looking into a webpage and not just take it as truth because it is on the internet. It is a skill that must be taught, however.
It was an interesting assignment and learned a lot, something that our staff should look into for professional development throughout the school year.
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