5.11. Internet and online research
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Evaluate the reliability of online sources based on credibility criteria.
- Present research findings and explain the evaluation process.
- Identify credible online sources for healthcare information using specific evaluation criteria.
- Apply digital literacy skills to conduct accurate and reliable online research.
- Discuss the significance of cultural competency in evaluating health resources.
- Present research findings effectively and engage in constructive peer discussions.
Part 1: Warm-Up Discussion
Exploring Online Resources
Think about the question:
- What are some common online resources you use to find health information?
- Your Answer: ____________________________________________
- Participate in the class discussion and write down two resources mentioned by your classmates:
- Why do you think it is important to use credible resources for healthcare information?
- Your Answer: ____________________________________________
Part 2: Introduction to Credible Online Research
Identifying Credible Sources
Review the following criteria for evaluating the credibility of online sources. Write notes for each:
Credibility Checklist:
| Criteria | Description | Examples | My Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Authorship | Is the author a qualified expert in the field? | Doctors, researchers, healthcare organizations | |
| Reputation | Is the website well-known and respected? | Mayo Clinic, CDC, WHO | |
| Citations | Are there references or sources supporting the information? | Links to studies or scientific articles | |
| Bias | Is the information presented objectively, without promoting products or opinions? | Objective wording, no advertisements |
Write down three reliable healthcare websites discussed in class:
- ___________________________________________
- ___________________________________________
- ___________________________________________
Part 3: Guided Practice – Searching for Information
Conducting Online Research
1. Choose one of the following healthcare-related research tasks or create your own:
- Example Tasks:
- Find information on the latest diabetes management guidelines.
- Research the side effects of a common medication.
- Learn about vaccination schedules for children.
- Your Task: _________________________
2. Use a computer, tablet, or smartphone to search for information online. While searching, apply the credibility criteria (authorship, reputation, citations, bias).
3. Write down the website URLs you visited and any information you found:
- Website URL 1: ____________________________________________
- Information Found: ____________________________________________
- Website URL 2: ____________________________________________
- Information Found: ____________________________________________
- Website URL 3: ____________________________________________
- Information Found: ____________________________________________
Part 4: Source Evaluation
Evaluating Your Sources
In your group, share the sources you found and evaluate them using the worksheet below. Discuss whether you consider the sources reliable and why.
Source Evaluation Worksheet:
| Website/Source Name | Authorship (Expert?) | Reputation (Respected?) | Citations (Provided?) | Bias (Objective?) | Reliable (Yes/No) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Example: Mayo Clinic | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
After 15 minutes, prepare to share one source with the class. Be ready to explain:
- Why you think the source is credible (or not).
- How you applied the evaluation criteria.
Part 5: Application Activity – Presenting Findings
Group Presentations
Present your research findings to the class. In your presentation, include:
- The healthcare topic you researched.
- The key information you found.
- The sources you used and your evaluation of their credibility.
After your presentation, answer questions from the class about your findings or the sources you used.
Part 6: Wrap-Up and Reflection
Reflecting on Online Research
Reflect on your experience conducting online research and answer the following questions:
- What challenges did you face while researching?
- Your Answer: ____________________________________________
- Which credibility criteria did you find most helpful?
- Your Answer: ____________________________________________
- How can you apply these skills in your role as a CMA?
- Your Answer: ____________________________________________
- Write down one key takeaway from today’s lesson:
- Key Takeaway: ____________________________________________
