A.  Criteria for evaluating resources 

Throughout the search process, it is important to evaluate what you are finding, whether in print or on the Internet, but especially if you are using Internet resources.  Remember, anyone can publish on the Internet -- it is not regulated in any way.

Traditional library resources still require evaluation, although they have usually undergone some sort of evaluative process.  The books and other library materials you find have been selected and evaluated by librarians or other information specialists.  The materials indexed in a database such as CINAHL are included because of certain qualitative criteria established by the organization or company producing the database.  Even so, each user should evaluate his or her sources to make sure the information is thorough, accurate and timely enough for his or her particular purpose.

CINAHL indexes primarily peer-reviewed articles.  "Peer review" is the process used for most journal research articles.  A panel of specialists in the field will read each submitted paper for accuracy and importance.  You, too, can evaluate these papers by examining the various methods, results, discussion and references sections as well as the reputation of the journal.

Next:  Criteria for evaluating Internet sites