Internet Search Tools: Google Search, Creative Commons & Wolfram Alpha

This week I explored and reviewed some great search tools in Google (and beyond) that could save educators a lot of time and effort when looking for a specific topic, author, type of document, etc.  Additionally, they might also serves as great additions to help "spice up" or add variety to lessons in the classroom.  These tools can also be useful for students when working on assignments, projects or research assignments in the classroom.

Google Search Tools & Creative Commons
I created a Google Slideshow for a potential professional development workshop to display some of the Google Search options available to help educators be more efficient and effective when searching for particular topics.  The Creative Commons is another great (and safe) search tool for teachers and students to gather and utilize material for lesson plans, assignments and/or projects without stressing over copyright issues (great way to teach digital citizenship).  The Slideshow has MANY video tutorials and resource links to help educate and guide you in using these great search tools.

Still didn't find what you were looking for?  Here are some additional resources:

Google for Educators:  The Best Features for Busy Teachers

20 Google Tools Teachers Should Try

The Best Ways to Use Google in the Classroom

Resource Guide: 8 Google Tools for the Classroom

Teaching Students About the Creative Commons

Creative Commons Resources for Classroom Teachers

Creative Commons Search Page

Wolfram Alpha

Wolfram Alpha is a "computational knowledge engine" that computes answers to your searches, analyzing potential feedback to provide you with and many facts and bits of information on the topic as possible.  Personally, I believe that this search engine is geared more toward math and science. However, it displays a wide array of main topics to choose from; you just might not get the answers that you were hoping for OR you could get more than you bargained for.  Again, I believe it's all in the topic you are looking for and what you hope to get out of it.  Wolfram Alpha has also created a lesson plans page for educators.  The subjects currently posted are math, science and social studies (if you teach these subjects this is a bonus for you).  Despite a few of these drawbacks, I still believe that this is a very beneficial search site, especially for classroom teachers.  Check out the video tutorials below to learn more about Wolfram Alpha:

Here are some additional videos and resources on Wolfram Alpha:

10 Best Ways to Use Wolfram Alpha Knowledge Engine

4+ Powerful Ways to use Wolfram Alpha for Educating Your Kids

Wolfram Alpha for Educators

Education App Review:  Wolfram Alpha

Wolfram Alpha Examples by Topic

Want to know who rates better, Google or Wolfram Alpha?  Watch the Google vs. Wolfram Alpha video below:

Of course, the final call is up to you, the user.  Happy Searching!