Final answer:
To determine the objectivity of an online source, ascertain the credibility of the author, verify the trustworthiness and citations of information, and investigate the reputation of the publisher or sponsor. Ads and the presence of bias can also impact objectivity.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the objectivity of an internet source, asking several questions can be helpful. Firstly, consider who is the author of the web page, whether they are affiliated with a credible organization or institution, and if the author's credentials are listed and relevant to the information on the page. Current contact information for the author is also a sign of credibility. Secondly, assess if the information is trustworthy; check for citations, bibliographies, and whether the information presents a balanced view or a particular bias. Advertisements on the page may also affect content objectivity. Lastly, the publisher or sponsor can be a significant indicator of the source's objectivity – if the publisher is a known business, political organization, or special interest group, this may influence the content.
Always make sure the website's information is cited, and investigate the reputation of the site and the authors by looking for reviews or critiques. Determine if other authority sources approve the site or if there is information suggesting the site or its data might be questionable. Finally, does the information align with other data from recognized scholars and is it listed as a resource in your school library? If unsure, reach out to librarians or experts in online spaces for assistance.