Authority Teaching Scenario

Use Web evaluation tools to examine a credible website that will provide accurate and reliable information on Nelson Mandela, bearing in mind the user (e.g. grade, mother tongue, reading level) and in the case of learners, the curriculum. 

Activity

Use any search engine to find information on Nelson Mandela, use the following questions as a guide in choosing a website that will have reliable information.

Authority: Who owns the web site and why?

·         Are the author’s name and email address evident?

·         Is the site connected with a major institution or organization

·         Is the authors an expert in the field?

·         Is the purpose of the site stated clearly?

·         Is personal information requested from the user?

·         Domain?

·         About us?

·         Contact details?

Learning Outcomes/ Knowledge practices:

•      Students should be able to define different types of authority such as subject expertise (Scholarship), society position (public office or title), or special experience (participating in an historic event)

•      Use markers of authority to determine the credibility of sources

•      Recognise that authoritative content may be packaged formally or informally and may include audio, visual an non-print sources