Research and Excel

Looking for information for research has become easier and easier, the more technology develops. The computer definitely revolutionized the way libraries were catalogued, but in the wake of the internet revolution, many students prefer the use of the internet as a research tool. It is very tempting to go to Google, Yahoo, or other search engines to do most of the reaserch, however it becomes problematic when seeking accurate and credible information.

Now providing students with appropriate search engines and web sites to visit is very helpful, in order for students get that desired information. With that said one must identify, what is a credible website, and what isn’t. For instance, Wikipedia, is NOT a credible web site. I would show students how easy it is to modify entries on Wikipedia, making information not reliable. Keeping students on sites that have strong ties to institutions can work a lot better and is proffered. For example, generally one can find government studies on sites labeled, .gov. and most of the time the information is credible because of its ties to that all powerful institution: the U.S, government.

The article also spoke of sites that had a plethora of research available for various content for a small fee. It would be very important to speak with the librarian or the school administration to see if there can be a school wide access to these sites in order for students to search for scholarly articles. These sites can include such as Lexus-Nexus or EBSCOhost. Furthermore guiding students to appropriate search engines will help students in the future from finding the incorrect information for research projects. Teachers also must also check for plagiarism as it becomes very tempting for students to take short cuts.

As for assignment, Excel is a great tool to use to organize many different numbers. For math and science teachers this can be a very good tool to teach augment class projects and data. The grading process also becomes very easy, especially if the school you work at does grades by hand. With Excel one can make detailed progress reports for parents as well as administrators. Excel is definitely paramount for teachers to know and be proficient in.