AURA

When evaluating a web site, consider its “AURA”

A: Authentic
Is authorship/sponsorship acknowledged? Who are the authors/contributors? What is determined about the author/sponsoring agency in terms of expertise? Could the content meet the rigorous requirements for print publication in a reputable textbook/journal on that topic? What is known about their scholarship? Do links lead to other valid, reliable sites?

U: Up-to-Date/Unbiased
Is a recent date provided for the web site? Is current information offered? Are diverse viewpoints presented? Is bias absent?

R: Relevant
Is the date relevant to identified needs? Are the reading level, graphics, and layout suitable for the identified audience? Is subject matter covered with adequate attention to breadth and depth? Are the links to other sites relevant?

A: Approachable
Does it attract the user? Does it distract the user with unnecessary special effects? Does it guide the use in readily navigating the web site and in accessing provided links? Are options provided for user responses/feedback?

Annette Sherry, ETEC Dept., University of Hawaii, 1998

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