Why Use the Web for finding Information?

Why would you use the web for your information needs?

• It's fast. (Sometimes)
• It's up-to-date. (Sometimes)
• It's fun.
• It's visually pleasing.
• It often contains unique information.
  

Why not use the web for everything, all of the time?

• It's slow going if you don't know exactly what you are looking for.
• It can be frustrating and inefficient.
• If you are looking for a short answer to a factual question, a reference book may be faster.
• The information may not be as current as you think.
  (is the site being constantly revised?)
  
• The information may not be as reliable as it looks.
  • Who is providing the information
  • Some commercial sites may be very useful
  • Some educational sites may NOT be useful
    (sixth grade term papers, course descriptions from other colleges, etc.)
    

• Educational institutions
• Corporations
• Government agencies
• Non-profit organizations
• Individuals - including:
  • fans of authors, celebrities, etc.
  • Eight-year-olds whose parents can mount websites
  • Eight-year-olds who can mount their own websites
  • People who have political, social, economic agendas to share
  • People who have other things to share