Topic 3: Search Engines & Information Evaluation

Learner's Guide Pages 31–65 | Unit Standard 18758 (Level 1, Credits 2)

Learning Objectives

By completing this module, you will prepare for your assessment by learning to:

Define the purpose and function of search engines.
Use keywords and Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to refine web searches.
Evaluate web content for currency, accuracy, authority, and relevance.
Identify copyright considerations and ethical practices when using online information.

1. Search Engines & Search Techniques

A search engine (such as Google, Bing, or DuckDuckGo) is a software program that searches a database of web pages for keywords specified by the user.

To find precise information quickly, use effective search strategies:

Keywords: Use specific terms rather than full sentences (e.g., kiwi conservation new zealand instead of tell me how people save kiwi birds in NZ).
Exact Phrase Match (" "): Enclosing words in speech marks searches for that exact sequence (e.g., "Unit Standard 18758").
Boolean Operators:
- AND: Narrows results by requiring both terms (e.g., auckland AND weather).
- OR: Broadens results by including either term (e.g., wellington OR christchurch).
- NOT / -: Excludes specific terms (e.g., jaguar -car to search for the animal only).

Activity 1: Search Query Builder

Build an effective search query based on the scenarios below.

Scenario: You want to research tourism in Rotorua or Queenstown, but you want to exclude any results related to hotels.

2. Evaluating Web Content Quality

Because anyone can publish content online, you must evaluate web sources carefully using four key criteria before using the information:

Currency: When was the page created or last updated? Is the information still up to date?
Accuracy: Is the information supported by evidence, reliable references, or verified data?
Authority: Who created the content? Is the author or publishing organisation a reputable expert or recognised body (e.g., .govt.nz, .ac.nz)?
Relevance / Objectivity: Does the content answer your specific need? Is the tone balanced, or is it trying to sell something or express personal bias?

Copyright Reminder: Information, images, and material found on the web are usually protected by copyright law. Always acknowledge your sources and obtain permission where required before reusing content.

Activity 2: Multiple Choice Knowledge Check

Select the correct answer for each question below.

Activity 3: Short Written Responses

Practice writing answers in your own words, formatted for your assessment tasks.

1. Explain why it is important to check the authority and currency of a website before using its information for research.

2. How would using quotation marks around "web browser features" change your search engine results compared to typing web browser features without quotes?

🎓

Ka Rawe! Module Completed

Congratulations, you have finished all pre-learning topics for Unit Standard 18758: Find information using the Internet.

You are now prepared to:

Explain the differences between the Internet, World Wide Web, and Intranets.
Navigate and configure common web browser settings, cache, and history.
Refine web searches using Boolean logic and search symbols.
Critically evaluate web pages for authority, currency, accuracy, and relevance.

Next Step: Inform your teacher that you have completed this prep module to receive your formal assessment booklet.