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Effective Search Strategies




Developing Effective Search Strategies

On the Internet, the user has access to a wide variety of search tools and services. The following sites describe the various avenues available for finding information on the Internet as well as outlining strategies and offering practical suggestions for searching.
  • Ask SCOTT: Your Guide to Finding It on the Internet
    Scott Nicholson, Information Institute of Syracuse. Syracuse University’s School
    An online reference tool to assist users with more effective and efficient searching. Read the orientation to SCOTT which outlines how to use it, plus advice and tips. Includes an in-depth searching tutorial.
    Teacher resource for all levels.


  • Conducting Research on the Internet
    University at Albany Libraries, US
    Strategies for conducting research using the Internet include how to find information, discussion groups and usenet newsgroups and what they offer, browsing and using URLs, subject directories and search engines.
    Teacher resource for all levels.

  • Finding Information on the Internet - A Tutorial
    UC Berkeley Library, US
    This tutorial presents a progression of topics from beginning information to advanced searching and beyond. Topics include an introduction to the Internet, WWW and Netscape, a glossary of Internet and Netscape jargon and Strategies for searching the World Wide Web.
    Teacher resource for all levels.

  • Sink or Swim: Internet Search Tools & Techniques [Version 5]
    Ross Tyner, Okanagan University College Library, Canada
    A workshop on using search engines and subject guides effectively. Contents include search strategies (boolean logic, how to use it and search tips), search engine comparisons and exercises to practise effective searching skills.
    Teacher resource for all levels.
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About Search Engines and Directories

An understanding of the various tools that are available and how they differ in approach will help teachers to make the best choices to guide their students on the road to successful searching.
  • Learning More about Search Engines and Subject Directories: FAQs
    Open Learning Agency, British Colombia Open University, Canada
    An FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) about searching on the Internet. Answers are straightforward and contain clear explanations without being simple.
    Teacher resource for Middle Childhood to Late Adolescence.

  • Search Engine Watch
    Danny Sullivan and Chris Sherman
    All about search engines, including up-to-date news, search engine listings, new technologies, searching tips, search engine reviews and ratings, submission tips and related resources.
    Teacher resource for Early to Late Adolescence.


  • Searching the Internet: Recommended sites and search techniques
    University at Albany Libraries, US
    An in-depth examination of subject directories and search engines. Includes an explanation of subject directories, clearinghouses and search engines and how to use them effectively.
    Teacher resource for Early to Late Adolescence.
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