Internet Search Tools

Although students become highly engaged when asked to "surf" the internet, dangers and distractions can interrupt the education process. Finding search tools which guide students toward learning saves time, protects students from unwanted information, and leverages a positive use of technology for education's stakeholders. Below, please find five sites which will fit the needs of teachers, students, and parents.

Google Scholar

This website is simple and clean, with a few nice education features. After selecting a topic to search, the selections are left justified, which makes them easy to read. The summary on the page is extended, allowing students to decide if the link will be relevant before taking the time to follow it. There is also a feature for students to save citations and save links into their own library, which is helpful when working through a long project, or when students need to access information from other classes. My only complaint is that it doesn't appear to filter information or images for younger learners. When I typed in "holocaust" and viewed "images," the images were not different from the regular Google site. This tool would be best for secondary students.

WoolframAlpha

This powerful site has features most easily used in the math or science contexts. The graphics feature makes learning visible, including step by step directions to solve a problem or follow a process. I like how it gives a snapshot of statistics, and chunks the information by categories. This is an easy format for students to follow, and allows them to easily compare and contrast information in parallel categories. The features allow for classroom problem solving at a higher level of analysis and evaluation, and propels students through the need to generate information to discuss. This would be a helpful way to model problem solving, since the facts and numbers can be accessed for immediate analysis.

Boolify

Boolify changes the structure of a search itself, and captures the idea of a Boolean phrase, simplifying it for student use. For example, students can type in a phrase, a combination of words, or ask Boolify to find the synonym or antonym. Powerful combinations of ideas can be searched this way. For example, I typed in "holocaust" and "literature." Boolify found resources that were fiction. Students can save their search results, which would be helpful for cross-content classes. Boolify also features lesson plans by grade level and content which are aligned to the NETS and Idaho Core Standards. It is simple to use and follow. I see this as the perfect first step for students learning how to use internet tools; it also promotes critical and creative thinking through its Boolean-styled search box.

Cybersleuth Kids

Geared for younger children, this website organizes topics and types of information into boxes, including videos, games, and coloring printables. The categories include words and pictures, so the youngest student, or an English Language Learner, could easily use it. It provides an already-curated list of resources that are appropriate for young children. In my context, it would be perfect for ELL students or those students who need modified resources for attention issues. Advertisement pop-ups provide a minimum distraction.

Kidrex

Kidrex's opening page made me smile. It is simple, cute, visually appealing, and features larger type. Its opening page is designed for kids and parents, with an entire section devoted to helping parents help their children. This page includes strong content filters, and when I searched for "holocaust," it provided only age-appropriate links for younger children. This site would be perfect for teaching search strategies, netiquette, and empowering young learners while keeping them safe.