Common Sense Media: 5 Must-Have Google Search Tips for Students
Is Google OK for formal research? It’s complicated.
Most of us begin any simple quest for knowledge with a Google search. So it makes sense that more serious searches might start there, too. But is Google OK for formal research? That depends. It’s still best to combine Googling with other forms of research, like visiting a library or using an academic database. Plus, the first results a searcher sees are now created by generative AI, which comes with its own set of limitations. However, a well-crafted Google Search—not totally reliant on the AI-based results—can get you well on your way to finding credible, accurate information for a research paper or project, if you know how to use it.
AI Literacy Before a Search
Before digging into the search engine-specific tips, it’s important to address the AI summaries head-on. As generative artificial intelligence is infused into so many products, AI literacy is an essential first step when students are about to do research. To find accurate information, kids need to know that AI summaries aren’t always accurate and can even provide different answers for the same queries! It’s also important for educators to know that Google’s embedded AI search will readily offer answers to questions you’re asking your students to research. In other words, if your goal is for students to read sources and synthesize information, a Google search based only on the AI summary won’t meet this objective. Instead, have students use fact-finding techniques (like S.I.F.T. and S.E.E.K.) and library databases to learn the skills first.
Once students have these foundational skills (or the AI summaries are avoidable), they’re ready for specific search engine tips. …
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Is Google OK for formal research? It’s complicated.
Most of us begin any simple quest for knowledge with a Google search. So it makes sense that more serious searches might start there, too. But is Google OK for formal research? That depends. It’s still best to combine Googling with other forms of research, like visiting a library or using an academic database. Plus, the first results a searcher sees are now created by generative AI, which comes with its own set of limitations. However, a well-crafted Google Search—not totally reliant on the AI-based results—can get you well on your way to finding credible, accurate information for a research paper or project, if you know how to use it.
AI Literacy Before a Search
Before digging into the search engine-specific tips, it’s important to address the AI summaries head-on. As generative artificial intelligence is infused into so many products, AI literacy is an essential first step when students are about to do research. To find accurate information, kids need to know that AI summaries aren’t always accurate and can even provide different answers for the same queries! It’s also important for educators to know that Google’s embedded AI search will readily offer answers to questions you’re asking your students to research. In other words, if your goal is for students to read sources and synthesize information, a Google search based only on the AI summary won’t meet this objective. Instead, have students use fact-finding techniques (like S.I.F.T. and S.E.E.K.) and library databases to learn the skills first.
Once students have these foundational skills (or the AI summaries are avoidable), they’re ready for specific search engine tips. …
Continue article here