Although we have learned about some amazing electronic resources, for this particular subject (Crashes Caused by Texting and Driving) I would probably suggest starting with a favorite search engine. However, the results need to be scrutinized and not chosen simply by the order they come up. I would tell the user to scan the results for government sponsored sites to ensure legitimacy and accuracy. I would also suggest going straight to USA.gov as that site provides information about public safety and the law. ProQuest would be my next suggestion, if the user has access to a subscription. Many people like Wikipedia, but I would not use it as a complete reference; simply to get basic information that could be researched. There is no guarantee that the people providing input to Wikipedia have accurate information. For this subject, I don’t believe encyclopedias would be a good reference.
a) Searching via a favorite search engine – One that the user is familiar and comfortable with
b) Government sponsored websites, such as:
- www.usa.gov (Government Made Easy)
- www.fcc.gov (Federal Communications Commission)
- www.distraction.gov
c) ProQuest or other electronic journal/newspaper, such as:
- World News Digest (Facts on File)
- Issues and Controversies (Facts on File)
- EBSCO - Student Research Center
d) Wikipedia – Only as a starting point for information that may be helpful. This site should not be used as an absolute reference, but it can help a user know what to look for.
e) Encyclopedia.com - Although encyclopedias cover factual information, this site does not list news and statistical information. It offers descriptions and/or definitions of texting rather than the results of what can happen when texting and driving.
f) Encyclopedia Brittanica.com – Encyclopedia that is offered through a subscription
Even though I listed a “favorite search engine” as my first suggestion, I would still insist that the user evaluate a chosen result for accuracy.
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