Evaluating Web-Based Information: Access and Accuracy

This paper discusses the rate at which selected biochemistry Web site text hyperlinks lost viability and cites reports in which the veracity of Web materials is studied. The 515 URL links (chosen in August 2000 as resources for biochemistry courses taken online by high school teachers) were tracked to collect data on the numbers and the top-level domain types of the hyperlinks that no longer functioned. Possible causes are discussed, as well as the potential benefits and risks associated with public access to material on the World Wide Web.