Don't Just Google it

Introduction

Students are relying on Google when using the Internet to research. Students should use a search process that includes all types of information retrieval services, develop the ability to work within that service, and the ability to assess the credibility of the information retrieved. When researching using the Internet one must determine the best tool for the desired information. It is important to define the task and determine what information is needed before one can complete the research task effectively. In order to find the most relevant information as possible, we need to identify the most effective search engines / databases for specific information. Narrowing down searches is another skill that is necessary for effective information retrieval and usage. Finally, one must also know how to evaluate the sources of information. Once able to master these tasks, one can use the Internet to locate and use information effectively.

After completing this Webquest, students will be able to:
- Narrow down Internet Search Engines and Database searches.
- Use Internet search engines and Databases to locate facts, current topics, and research based information.
- Evaluate the credibility and reliability of information.
- Synthesize information into an organized document.

Tasks

Use the following links to learn how to narrow down searches:

https://www.lifehack.org/articles/technology/stop-wasting-time-how-to-search-like-a-pro.html

https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/internet-searching.htm

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/internet-search-tips

Level 2 Internet WWW Lesson 8: Advanced search engine techniques

Use the following resources to locate search engines
https://www.searchenginejournal.com/alternative-search-engines/271409/

20 Search Engines That Are Better Than Google!?

https://wmlnj.org/research-databases/

https://sites.google.com/bloomfield.k12.nj.us/bengallibrary/start-your-research-here

Use the following resources to locate suggestions and reccommendations for evaluating information found on the Internet
https://guides.lib.berkeley.edu/evaluating-resources

https://guides.library.cornell.edu/c.php?g=543699&p=7459941

https://library.famu.edu/c.php?g=276172&p=1840652

Evaluating internet sources

For additional help, here is a glossary of search engine terms:

http://www.cadenza.org/search_engine_terms/srchei.htm#seth

Process

The Process

Use search engines and databases to locate information on:
Group A: cancer
Group B: heart attacks
Group C: arthritis
Group D: diabetes

Create a 1-page document explaining how to narrow down searches (Web and Databases)
Create a 1-page document on the best tools to use for locating facts, current topics, AND research based information. Include rationales in your findings.
Create a 1-page document on how to evaluate web/database information.
Use Microsoft Word, 1/2" margins, 12pt Verdana Font

Evaluation

Conclusion

The ability to use Internet tools effectively and efficiently is important completing research tasks. Included here are many resources that are and will be useful when completing research tasks. Google is a great tool, but it isn't the ONLY tool for retrieving information from the Internet. The hope for this Webquest is that one can now use varied sources which are appropriate to the task at hand.