Evaluating Search Tools
From IFA School Wiki
Contents |
Introduction
Web pages number in the billions! Finding exactly what you are looking for is not an easy task. One important trick is to become familiar with a variety of search tools and know how to use each one well.
The Task
First your group will become "experts" in using one search tool. Then your group will demonstate how to use the search tool by creating a commercial "selling" its best features. The objective will be to convince your fellow classmates that your search tool is the best one to use.
Process
Follow the following steps to learn more about your search tool.
- Examine the main features of your search tool as found on its front page.
- Visit the help page. What are the "secrets" of the search tool.
- Evaluate the search tool. Look for its good features. Look for the bad ones.
- How are the results organzied and displayed?
- Try at least two searches to "road test" your search tool.
After the "road test" create a commercial. Design a 3-minute commercial to "sell" your search tool to the group. Your presentation must include five major selling points for this search. To be effective, you should demonstrate the search tool's features by giving the class an actual tour with examples.
Resources
Online Databases
Search Engines
Evaluation
You will be evaluated on your group work, your completed organizer, and the effectiveness of your commercial. The criteria for evaluation of your work is listed on the SearchQuest Rubric.
Conclusion
Using the best search tools and using them well will put you on the roal to success in finding the right information for your needs.
