We spend on average four hours per week on Google searches.
Just read this article that says we use 4 hours per week on Google searches? True, I’m not sure, but it pays to know how to search accurately. Every looked at all the results you get on a search and wondered if you should look beyond the 3 first entries? In my book the digital classroom, I have written about smart searches. Do you take time to think about how you conduct a search? And do you talk to your students explaining how they can search online? Everyone assumes they know how to, the question is, do they? I have shared the highlights from the article here. Google Search Tricks
- Use the exact phrase. “___” is what tells Google you’re only wanting exact phrase results. Try “Brexit what is happening?” and see what that gets you.
- Exclude terms with minus, not interested in Brexit? Try BBC news -Brexit
- Say hello to * it can help Google find a missing word in a phrase or quote. if you search: inst* it will give you all word with inst in it.
- Use or when you search. Search for X or Y. This will return results related to X or Y, or both
- Use synonym searches use ~ if you are not sure how the word is written.
- Use the search word related. Want to find something that looks like your favorite post? Try this; related:Washingtonpost.com
Want more? Try looking here for 42 search operators.
Lesson plan
Write a blog post where you give advice to students on how to search online.