Introduction
Select a Search Tool
Web Sites by Subject
How to Search
Deep Web
How to Evaluate
How to Cite
 
 

Internet Searching:

Introduction

AU Librarians have assembled the following links to assist you in using the Internet for research. The Internet is a worldwide network, linking computers to computers so that they can share information. The best known part of the Internet is the World Wide Web, which presents its content as hypertext, allowing you to click and link from one document or object to another. The web includes graphics, video and sound. Other Internet tools include e-mail, Usenet, file transfer and chat.

The Internet provides access to an overwhelming number of resources and it is often difficult to find quality information. It is important to approach the Internet as you would any information resource:

  • have a search strategy and be prepared to adjust it as you learn more about what is available on your topic.

Typing keywords into a search engine is generally not the best starting point for research. The most useful approach is to begin by searching library catalogues which list books and other library materials, standard reference tools such as encyclopedias and dictionaries, and Databases which contain indexing and abstracting and sometimes the full text for journal articles. This will provide you with general background information and more in-depth scholarly research relevant to your topic. Once you have gathered this information, you may wish to extend your search to the Internet. The Internet can be a valuable research tool, providing access to government information, academic and educational sites, news and media resources, electronic journals, library gateways, etc.

Remember to think critically!

Follow the links to learn about the following topics:

  • Select a Search Tool
    Access a collection of some of the most widely used Internet search tools, organized by type.


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