Post #2 History Place Evaluation

George Scott
Site: History Place
January 20, 2008
URL: http://www.historyplace.com/unitedstates/revolution/rev-prel.htm
Time: 9:15 pm

1 = Poor 5 =Exceptional

Design:

1. Navigation tools are good. Links are clearly labeled.
1 2 3 4 5

2. Can move from page to page easily.
1 2 3 4 5

3. Site offers interactivity. The visitor is engaged.
1 2 3 4 5

4. Can easily find information.
1 2 3 4 5

5. This site is aesthetically pleasing. Good use of color and graphics.
1 2 3 4 5

Content:

1. Site is properly titled.
1 2 3 4 5

2. Additional resource links are included.
1 2 3 4 5

3. Information is useful.
1 2 3 4 5

4. Rich content and will likely be revisited.
1 2 3 4 5

5. Rate this web site as it compares in content to similar web sites.
1 2 3 4 5

Technical Elements:

1. All links work.
1 2 3 4 5

2. Thumbnail graphics used. Graphics are appropriately sized.
1 2 3 4 5

3. Alternative text page is offered when heavy graphics or frames are used.
1 2 3 4 5

4. Image links and image maps have a text alternative.
1 2 3 4 5

5. Site shows meaningful information within 30 seconds.
1 2 3 4 5

Credibility:

1. Contact person is stated with e-mail address.
1 2 3 4 5

2. Indicates when this page was last updated.
1 2 3 4 5

3. Links are current. (Last 3- 6 months)
1 2 3 4 5

4. Resource links used to develop content are included.
1 2 3 4 5

5. States the name of the host school or organization.
1 2 3 4 5

Total Possible Points = 100
Total Score of this web site: 70


How to improve this site: I would recommend that this site update its layout. The information is readily available but is presented in a very mundane manner that could quickly lose the attention of the casual reader. I would also suggest that this site provide more resource information, such as original works.

Comments: History Place provides a plethora of information across multiply historical periods. It does not go into great detail but does provide a general idea about specific topics.

How would I use this site for teaching? I would use this site to help get a general idea about a particular subject and perhaps to find additional resources. Students could use it as a beginning point for research assignments.