Using the CRAAP Test to Evaluate Websites

Abstract

Students in the University of Hawaii System are required to use appropriate sources for their papers, presentations, or assignments. The problem for students is determining which resources are appropriate, especially if that source is a website. Anyone can create a website about anything, so it is important for students to learn how to determine if a website is a credible source. “Using the CRAAP Test to Evaluate Websites,” an online instructional module, was created as a means to teach students how to evaluate websites. The initial testing of this module was done to determine the effectiveness of the module to teach the concept of website evaluation. It was administered to students at various levels of study as well as faculty and staff to gain valuable feedback from students as well as those responsible for teaching students about evaluating websites. Quantitative results indicated that participant scores improved from the pretest to post-test. Qualitative results demonstrated that participants understanding of website evaluation increased, but there is room for improvement. The testing of this module was successful and it will be revised and made available to students and instructors at Honolulu Community College, part of the University of Hawaii System. It will also be shared with other instruction librarians within the University of Hawaii System.