michigan informatics

Introduction

When most people search for information on the Internet, they go to Google, type in a few words and press search. If a web site does not show up in the first half of the results list, it is generally never found. This tutorial will teach you to create targeted, efficient search strategies that use the most effective tools available. You will learn exactly how search engines function, methods for advanced searching, and how search engines other than Google might actually be more useful to you. You will also learn how to evaluate a web site so that you can be sure that you are retrieving accurate, authoritative, and unbiased information.

There is no editorial control of the Internet. Everyone can publish, regardless of knowledge, bias, or accuracy. The diversity of resources available requires you both to spend some time thinking about the best way to search for what you want and to evaluate everything you find.

Learning Objectives

• Describe how a search engine collects, stores, retrieves, and updates information;
• Effectively search specific search engines, taking advantage of unique features;
• Determine when to use a search engine and when to browse a gateway page; and
• Evaluate web sites for quality, authority, and bias.

Supported Competencies

Reference: Developed by The Council on Linkages Between Academia and Public Health Practice.

• Analytic/Assessment Skills
  • Identifies relevant and appropriate data and information sources
  • Obtains and interprets information regarding risks and benefits to the community
• Policy Development/Program Planning Skills
  • Collects, summarizes, and interprets information relevant to an issue
• Basic Public Health Sciences Skills
  • Identifies and retrieves current relevant scientific evidence