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Internet Research Methods

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This hands-on workshop will teach you how to find and evaluate information on the internet more efficiently and effectively. You will learn how to make the most of advanced search engine functionality, and discover how to access hidden information resources that are not available via normal online research methods.

• Extend the scope of your internet research.
• Learn about advanced search techniques and strategies.
• Improve the focus and quality of search results.
• Access 'hidden' information resources.
• Exclude redundant and irrelevant information.

This hands-on, afternoon workshop will teach you how to find and evaluate information on the internet more efficiently and effectively. You will learn how to make the most of advanced search engine functionality, and discover how to access hidden information resources that are not available via normal online research methods.

You will learn through a combination of classroom tuition and practical demonstrations, tasks and exercises (broadband internet access will be provided).

Who Should Attend?

This course is intended for anyone who wants to broaden the scope yet improve the efficiency of their internet searches - including researchers, analysts, writers, journalists and academics who regularly use the web to find information. (NB: It does not cover how to conduct qualitative research projects over the internet, for example by conducting email interviews or using the web to recruit research subjects.)

Outline

Subjects covered include:

• How search engines work (and why they sometimes don't)
• Which search engines work best?
• Boolean basics
• Getting the best from Google - tricks, tips, hints and hacks for advanced functionality
• Advanced query construction
• Filtering results and excluding unwanted information
• When Google isn't good enough
• Searching blogs, email, discussion groups, mailing lists etc.
• Searching specialist subject directories
• The Invisible Web - accessing databases and other information that search engines can't see
• Pay services
• "Helper" software and search tools
• Judging the quality of what you find - evaluation criteria and processes
• Experts are the best information databases - how to find and use them via the internet

Course Tutor

The course is presented by David Brake.

Location

Metro New Media , 35 Kingsland Road, Shoreditch, London