Week Nine- Using Search Engines

Lecture Summary




This lecture looks at search engines and how to successfully use them to navigate our way trhroiugh the WWW. A search engine is a tool or programs which searches the internet providing a list of websites related to your search topic. It will provide a list of indexed sites sorted by keywords. Types of search engines commonly used are 'Google' and 'Yahoo'. The main problem with search engines is that they often return with huge lists of sites that can become unrelated to the chosen topic. It is therefore importand to use the search tips provided: enter specific keywords and phrases; use several keywords; use several search tools and think clearly about what you are searching to avoid wasting time. Search engines are an effective way of retieving information if used correctly.




Workshop Tasks- Week Nine




1. Stratergies to help structure a good search

• Think carefully about what your searching for and use the appropriate search tool for your search.





• Use the Web directory if your search is broad and a search engine if your search is more specifc.





• Use specific keywords related to your search, and enter a phrase to be even more specific.





• Always use letters as characters and numbers are often not understood by a search engines language program.

2. I have completed the quiz and included a screen shot.

Readings Week Nine

• The Virtual salt reading gives advice on how to use search engines and things to consider before you search. It discusses the types of search tool being search engines and directories, and the negatives and benefits of the different ways to enter a search. A very useful reading.




• The Spiders Apprentice reading is a tutorial on successfully using search engines to find the best possible results from your search. It explains the role of the two types of search tools and explains which is best to use for your particular search. An easy to use guide.




• The Search Engine Watch reading is a helpful tool to ensure a successful search. The reading looks at all aspects of searching the WWW, and teaches basic and advanced tools for searching.




• The History of the Internet reading discusses the history of the web and search engines, how we find information on the web, directories, search engines and library catalogues. Gives information on how to search the web.