Inside Search: Teaching How To Google It

Google it. Not quite - That is a great start but as I shared in the Advanced Image Search post there is much more to becoming steward of data. The web is overflowing with useless information that we have to plow through to get to the information we need. I am just as guilty, I can't remember the last time I did a Google search and progressed to the second results page. If the answer isn't in the first 10 results the I search again. But, if I have to search again, I will often refer to some power searching techniques to drill down into the data.  Below are some ideas, resources, and methods to help you do the same and share with students.

• Consider always having students start with the Advanced Search page. Have them complete at least two fields before starting the search.
• You still have time to join the Power Searching MOOC from Google - it is a free online course that started this week. Get in now!
• This great infographic from Mashable can help students "hone the art" of searching.
• Looking for classroom wall art? Print some of these free classroom search posters from Google - refer to them when students start research. While there, check out the Classroom Activities sections for a number of lessons and projects from Google. Lastly, visit Google's Search Education page for even more classroom resources.
• Try Google Insights (beta) and Google Trends to get results that present information with a global light and show what people are searching around the world. 
• View the Inside Search page from Google and follow its blog for the latest tips and tricks in Search.
• What Do You Love? Google will show you in all versions of it products - Check it out!
• Finally, be sure to check out the posts from fellow Google Certified Trainer and my man, Jeff Utecht - find him on Google+ and Twitter.
• K-2 Search Lesson
• 3-5 Search Lesson
• 6-8 Search Lesson
• 9-12 Search Lesson