Similar criteria for evaluating mass media, including TV, can be used to assess other forms of electronic information such as the Internet. Involve students in group discussions of research methods and results. Part of the power of research is in the ability to promote discussion about the issues and ideas that result from inquiry. These types of social interaction are a productive learning experience for everyone. Take advantage of the support for other teachers and staff within your school, your district, and elsewhere.
Media support personal and librarians, for example, can suggest student resources for research.
There are also discussion lists available on the Internet oriented toward many forms of research, both quanititative and qualitative. For example, the Usenet group, alt.education.research, is dedicated to discussions about educational research. Join this discussion list and learn from the people who frequent it as much as you can about research. Download free or shareware software to support Research, statistical analysis, and qualititative analysis. The Related Resources section has links to Websites where these tools can be downloaded, and the Professional Growth big idea has references to Websites that contain shareware or free software.