Information Searches

Introduction

Do you always use the same search tool such as Yahoo or Alta Vista? What is the difference between a Subject Guide and a Meta Searcher? When looking for information for a research paper, which search tool would be best? Is it necessary to look at traditional library sources when doing a research paper? This lesson should answer some of those questions and more. Searching for information on the Internet can be one of the most difficult tasks you encounter, or it can be fairly easy, depending on how you go about it.

Task

Review the various types of search tools and search functions as indicated below. This information should familiarize you with some new tools that you have never used before, and allow you to complete an Internet Treasure Hunt.

Process

Go to the Scout Toolkit, and review the five basic types of search tools- searchable index, subject catalog, annotated directory, subject guide and specialized directory. Also review the six common searching functions, being sure you understand how each works. Lastly, review Recommended Search Engines and Subject Directories. If you get bogged down in these links, you might want to try the tutorial on Internet Searching from the UC Berkley Library.

Once you are familiar with various search tools and methods, answer as many of following the questions as you can. Remember, there are probably several places on the Internet where the same information can be located.

1. How many US dollars would it cost for me to purchase one British Pound Sterling today?
2. Where can I find information about travel restrictions to Guatamala?
3. How many horsepower does a BMW R1100RT motorcycle produce?
4. At what web address can I find information about currency exchange rates throughout the world?
5. Who wrote "Alice in Wonderland" and what was it's original title?
6. I’m going to London and I’m staying near Victoria Station. If my plane lands at Heathrow Airport, what subway lines do I need to take and where do I change trains to get to Victoria Station?
7. I would like to translate a phrase from English into German. Is there a web site on the Internet that can help me do this? If so, what is its name?
8. I would like to buy an Olympus D550 digital camera. What is the cheapest price you can find right now and what store is offering that price?
9. What is a good resource for current information on non-linear editing?
10. What Academy Award winner appeared in the educational series, “Voyage of the Mimi”?

Answer as many as you can and be sure to answer the question. Don’t give additional information! Turn in a copy of the questions and the answers on the due date.

Evaluation

This will count as a lab grade. Scores of 10 will receive an A, 9=B, 8 or 7=C, 6=D. Good luck! Due date: See you schedule.

Conclusion

Use this information to assist you in your research for your oral report.