| Knowledge
Paths Criteria
Librarians
use the criteria below for evaluating resources and selecting high quality
items for each knowledge path. This set is based
on criteria developed by Cecilia Durkin, MSLS, AHIP from the seminar, Evaluating
web resources, CAPCON Library Network (1997). Most of the items in this
list also apply to print resources. The NCEMCH
resource development policy
(1999) is also used as a selection guide.
- Accuracy - Information
contained in the knowledge path selections must be accurate, verifiable,
and peer reviewed.
- Authority - Selections
must be from an authoritative source.
- Objectivity - Selections
must be educational in nature and not for the purpose of making a profit.
Selections must meet the information needs of the audience for whom
the knowledge path is intended.
- Currency - Selections
must be very recent (publications written in the last 2 years or Web
sites that are frequently updated); an older item may be considered
if it sets the foundation for future research (e.g., a Surgeon General's
report).
- Coverage - Selections
must specifically address the knowledge path topic. Resources must be
public health oriented and not clinical in nature. Resources that describe
and/or evaluate programs and/or discuss "lessons learned" are particularly
helpful to the MCH community and are often added to our paths.
- Access - Web sites
and other electronic resource selections must be easily accessible and
navigable. If not and the selection is essential to the path, we'll
add navigational tips for the user.
Please take a moment
to give us feedback about our
knowledge paths.
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