Taming the Beast

Using the InternetEfficiently & Effectively

Tame the Beast

To use the Internet efficiently and effectively, you must have FEAR!

Tame the Beast

1. Internet searching

Become the Web Whisperer

Successful Internet searches are:

PLANNED

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1. Write out your topic.2. Circle the keywords that give

your topic meaning.3. Use these words as your search

terms. 5-8 is optimal!4. Venture off the Google path.5. Try page 2+ of the results list.

Become the Web Whisperer

Internet Search Guide: http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/TeachingLib/Guides/Internet/Strategies.html

Worksheet: http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/TeachingLib/Guides/Internet/AnalyseTopicForm.pdf

A comprehensive plan

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1. Use distinctive phrases in “ ” where possible – e.g. “affirmative action”.

2. Search for organizations that may have published information on your topic.

3. Include synonyms, acronyms, etc. associated with your topic keywords.

4. Try, learn, revise!

Become the Web Whisperer

Try the Search Engine Guide:http://www.searchengineguide.com/searchengines.html

Create your own search engine:http://www.google.com/cse/

http://www.rollyo.com/

Some alternate search engines:

Become the Web Whisperer

Watch a quick screencast on how to use this online resource designed for student research.

Try Google Scholar!

http://www.screencast.com/t/MzJmMTcz

Become the Web Whisperer

Successful Internet searches are:

FOCUSED

YOU ARE HERE

EXIT

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1. Explore avenues that will get you to your goal.

2. Surfing/Social Media = LATERUse bookmarks/favorites to remember interesting but unrelated sites.

3. Use bookmarks or a CITATION MANAGER to keep track of where you’ve been!

Go on to the next step:

EVALUATE