LIBR 287-02
LIBR 287-11
Seminar in Information Science
Topic: Web Search
Fall 2012 Course Information
Amelia Kassel
E-mail
Note: This information is subject to change prior to or during the Fall 2012 semester.
Course Description
This course focuses on search techniques, tools, and content needed for conducting Web-based reference and research using search engines and diverse sources that comprise the Deep Web. Librarians and information professionals answer questions, conduct Internet research, and instruct library users in how to conduct their own searches in public, school, academic, and special libraries in order to meet diverse user needs. Learning how to formulate search strategies based on concept analysis and alternate terminology builds a solid foundation for providing the right answers and better search results in a time and cost-effective way.
Students will examine Web resources and learn basic and advanced techniques for answering both simple and complex questions with Google, Bing and an array of alternative and specialty search engines. Course topics include the impact of the Internet on society, business, and government and trends in Web research. Through readings, exercises, and discussion, students will learn about business, science, health, and technology content.
| Week | Main Activity | Assignment |
| 1 & 2 | Introduction to Course: Web Research Basics: How Search Engines Work |
Discussion Forum 1 Study major search engines and their applications using Search Comparison Charts and other readings. Compare how search engines function. |
| 3 & 4 | Anatomy of Google and Bing including technical information about the underlying (backend) technology and algorithms Google Personalization and Privacy Issues Construct search strategies for complex research questions. Learn concept analysis |
Discussion Forum 2 Discover, study, and use Google and Bing advanced search techniques and advanced Web search pages. Learn how, when and why to apply Boolean and proximity operators, file types, and other features such as reading level selections. |
| 5 & 6 | The Many Faces and Features of Google | Discussion Forum 3 Examine the Google Web site and its many capabilities and search tools. |
| Week | Main Activity | Assignment |
| 7 & 8 | The Deep Web/aka the Invisible or Hidden Web: Definitions and Examples Dynamic and Interactive Web Sites for Research |
Discussion Forum 2 Explore selected Deep Web databases and websites Explore selected Dynamic Websites Create data sets for specific applications |
| 9 & 10 | Specialty and Alternative Search Engines and Tools Semantic Web Search and Databases Digital Libraries for Research Open Source Academic and Scientific Journal Databases | Discussion Forum 5 Explore selected specialty search engines, semantic web databases, the World Digital Library, Digital Public Library of America, Google Books, and academic and scientific journal databases. |
| 11 & 12 | Social Media for Research: Search Tools and Techniques | Discussion Forum 6 Use Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter for reference and research questions. |
| 13 & 14 | Quality Search Criteria Using Pathfinders, Guides, Libraries, and Associations for Research |
Discussion Forum 7 Explore criteria for determining quality. Evaluate the authority of search results. Identify and learn to use quality resources as starting points for research. |
| 15 | Staying Current | Discussion Forum 8 Cover selected library and information blogs, discussion forums, LinkedIn Groups and associations for staying-up-to-date on new search technology for research applications |
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