The internet is a resourceful tool for accessing information. It is not only a popular source but also the preferred choice to get information. The internet is readily accessible to individuals. IT tools and technologies have been developed to facilitate access to the web by individuals with disabilities, situational limitations, slow internet connection, and those using devices such as mobile phones and smart TVs. Individuals are more likely to seek health-related information from the internet, notwithstanding the severity and nature of their condition(Lee et al., 2014). The risks and benefits that arise from this are significant. It is important to explore and discuss the need to be information savvy. CHADD is one of the few websites solely dedicated to providing information on ADHD. CHADD comprises staff who manage the site’s daily activities while the Board is in charge of formulating policies that guide the running of the organization. The core objective of the institution is to improve the health outcomes of individuals affected by ADHD. The paper will use accuracy, authority, and coverage to critique the site’s effectiveness in passing information on ADHD.
Authority
The website’s URL, .org, indicates that the source is official. The site was founded in 1987 to offer evidence-based information on ADHD. CHADD is qualified to disseminate evidence-based information to members of the public.CHADD is also recognized for its advocacy for policies that address the needs of people affected with ADHD.
The site has provided hyperlinks that direct the user to verified and reliable sources. The author has also provided a reference page where one can verify the information used in the site. Clinical and scientific evidence are clearly stated, and statistical data has been used to support their argument (Wolraich et al., 2019). Additionally, the site also provides access to fact sheets and infographics that provides an educative and interactive platform for its audience. Some of the information sources used are published surveys from reputable institutions such as the National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH) and the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). Other sources include the World Health Organization and peer-reviewed articles from the American Academy of Pediatrics. The site has also availed the contact information of the organization. A physical address, telephone number, and fax have been provided to facilitate correspondence with the institution.
Accuracy
CHADD boasts of a team of professionals who examine and verify the authenticity of the health-related info shared on the site. The National Resource Centre program works collaboratively with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide scientific-based information. The integrity of the scientific knowledge shared on the site is not only credible but also relevant. The content explicitly deals with ADHD.
A seal of approval has been provided from CDC, an institution that is deemed to be credible. The site has provided a disclaimer at the end of the webpage. The disclaimer emphasizes that the information shared therein does not represent CDC’s official views. CHADD goes further to highlight that it does not endorse products or publications that appear on its site. There is evidence of quality control and professionalism in the articles. The web page is free from typographical errors and logical fallacies. Acronyms are also clearly stated. The authors of the information are experts in the subject matter. At least two or more verifiable sources are provided for each title the site explores. Additionally, the information provided is complete, and there are no obvious gaps. The information provided corroborates with other sources hence emphasizing the accuracy of the website (Kim, 2010).
Coverage
The CHADD website extensively provides information on ADHD. The intentions of the site are clearly stated, and the information is only based on scientific facts. The site is logically organized hence providing easy access to the target audience. The target audience for this site is caregivers, parents, and professionals from other fields. Since the target audience is widespread, the content has been standardized to allow comprehension, hence reflecting the audience’s reading level. There is limited use of technical language, and the presentation of the topics is simple. On the left side of the site are subheadings that summarise the content contained therein. The site starts with a brief introduction which builds up to other key areas such as diagnosis and treatment. The content is also subdivided into age groups and how it affects these individuals. There is also a section where professionals can visit and get comprehensive coverage of the topic. The website addresses all the issues related to ADHD and provides additional resources such as webinars, podcasts, and training that help in fulfilling the institution’s mission.
In conclusion, it is prudent to state that CHADD has met an authoritative and accurate internet source threshold by providing quality information that meets the set criteria. The information provided corresponds with content from reputable sources. Additionally, the sources used in the site are valid and reliable.
References
Lee, K., Hoti, K., Hughes, J., & Emmerton, L. (2014). Interventions to Assist Health Consumers to Find Reliable Online Health Information: A Comprehensive Review. Plos ONE, 9(4), e94186. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094186
Kim, K. (2010). Understanding the consistent use of internet health information. Online Information Review, 34(6), 875-891. doi: 10.1108/14684521011099388
Wolraich, M. L., Hagan, J. F., Allan, C., Chan, E., Davison, D., Earls, M., … & Zurhellen, W. (2019). Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents. Pediatrics, 144(4).
