Module 2 - Analyzing and Designing a Web Site
Peer Evaluation
Here is the peer review form we will use when evaluating each others web sites later in the term. Or you can just cut and paste the form below into your word-processing program and fill it in for each of the two web sites you're reviewing.
Download a Microsoft Word version of this form.
WEB SITE PEER REVIEW FORMS
Name of Reviewer:
Web Site Reviewed (URL):
Web Site Reviewed (Title):
Browser Used by Reviewer: Netscape, Firefox, Internet Explorer, or Safari – try in multiple browsers if you have problems in one
Date and Time Reviewed:
Answer these questions and comment on the strengths or weaknesses of the web site. Remember, the goal is to help the author revise and improve their site, so keep the comments constructive.
1. Source :
- Whose web site is this? Is it clearly stated? Is contact information available?
- Is there an indication when the site was created/last updated?
2. Audience :
- Who was the site created for? (The site may not state this explicitly.)
- Do you think it is successful in appealing to that audience?
3. Content :
- What is included in the site? Primary sources? Excerpts from secondary sources?
- Is the information broad/deep enough? Look for size/scope notes on the first page.
- Is the material well written and easy to comprehend?
4. Accuracy :
- Is the information accurate, as far as you can tell? Does it refer to secondary sources and primary sources in consistent and appropriate ways? Does it cite all ideas, quotes, sources, & pictures?
5. Proofreading :
- Do all of the links work? Are all of the pictures there?
- Are there typos or grammatical errors?
6. Design :
- Does the site link to other appropriate links and information? Also, is it aesthetically pleasing?
- While some may be fooled if it is all style and no substance, a non-aesthetically pleasing site usually is a sign that the web site is not considered a high priority. The information on this site may not be considered important either and may not be accurate.
- However, some plain sites without “bells and whistles” can have good information (all substance and no style). Still, do design problems negatively affect how the site is perceived?
7. Medium :
- How does the site take advantage of the medium (of electronic technology) to enhance the source? [Does it use pictures, have music, or animations? Would it be appropriate for it to have those things, given the goal of the web site?]
8. Usability :
- How is site organized? How easy would it be for a person to find the information they seek on this site?
9. Appropriateness to course focus :
- In what ways does the site address the course’s main themes of technology and culture? Does the site fail to address these themes when it should? [Keep in mind the purpose of the site. It may not be appropriate to discuss all themes on some sites.]
10. Overall:
- Finally, as with any review, you should make an overall assessment of the web site as a resource for the study of technology and culture. How interesting, useful, or helpful would this site be to other college students, to other web surfers, to other people interested in these issues?
If you have any questions or problems, please let me know as soon as possible.
Adapted from UMCP HILS guidelines.