What were the three most useful tools or resources resulting from the web walkabout? How can students be taught to safely collect tools and resources that can help them maximize their learning? What policies or procedures might need to be in place to make this possible?
Three Useful Tools
Berkeley University's resource on evaluating websites is a "must keep" tool. It is a quick reference to help students remember what features to examine as they begin their search. Students will have to use this resource repeatedly until the techniques and suggestions become second nature.
The Web of Trust is a nice extension on the Chrome OS to help students find websites that are untainted. I am not sure if this can be accessed from other platforms. And, a number of teachers may not know how to use extensions. I do, and I am already Google APPS Certified, so I will definitely add this one to my arsenal of resources.
Wikipedia's list of domains is equally essential when teaching the research process. Many students do not examine the web address, but I teach this step to help eliminate meaningless resources. When students research, they must show me every resource they are using. My best advice is to have students locate reputable resources from the start versus sifting through junk only to tell them to do it again!
Teaching Students/Policies/Procedures
1. Teachers need to already have selected a cadre of tools for students prior to the research process. This ensures that students don't stray as much, and it teaches students how to use the resources.
2. Teachers must already know specific web tools prior to assigning anything. This means that the teacher has already scoped resources for the instructional purpose.
3. Place these web tools in a Digital Learning Community that students can always access. Annotate them to help students minimize their time in selecting resources.
4. Use them, repeatedly!
5. Reject any resource that has not been evaluated. Or, have students complete web quests on their own for various resources then share their findings on the class' DLC.
My DIIGO List of Web Reputable Digital Resources
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