A Tutorial on Internet Research

Luchie Maranan

Consider yourself lucky that in the age of the internet, information is literally at the tip
of your fingers. One click and a menu of references and sources becomes readily
available for your perusal.

This is not to say that books like the encyclopedia and academic journals are
obsolete or outdated. In fact, when you do your research on the Internet, you may
have to validate data and information from other similar reliable sources or
references.

So, how then is an effective and productive research work done through the Internet?
1. First, have a clear topic or subject matter that needs investigation and study.
What are your focus and objectives or aims?
2. Second, have a general outline of what you want to research on and identify
the limits or extent of your research.
3. Third, have an adequate knowledge and familiarity about using the Internet for
your research. Ask yourself: How familiar am I with the use of the Internet?

The Internet is an easy way to access lots of information. However, always exercise
caution when getting information from the Internet because:
 You cannot be too sure about the source, as the Internet is open to anyone
who can just post information. Credibility of sources is important.
 Timeliness must be considered, too. Is the information current? Has it been
updated? Or is it obsolete and not useful to your research anymore?

When choosing the search engine, keep in mind the following:

 Do not be intimidated by the vast sea of information available online.
 There are many search engines or directories available. Some of these search
engines are Google, Yahoo! Search, AskJeeves, and Teoma.
 Choosing the type of search engine for the information you need will make
your research quicker and more reliable.

Start your research by typing, the topic on the search engine bar and the information
you need to know. In one click, the search engine will then give you a long list of
possible references. Once you see these numerous links, bear in mind these
important questions:
1. Does the site give me the general information I need?
2. What are the data/information contained in the particular site?
3. Who/what is the source of information on the topic?
4. Can I trust this information?
 5. Can I verify the data/information?
6. How does it fit in with my research topic?
7. Is the information authoritative and accurate/

The last question is important. The validity of your research depends on the
correctness and accuracy of the information you have gathered. This is why as a
researcher, you have the responsibility to find out who authored or created and put
the information on the Web.

After obtaining the information you need, take note of the following:
1. Look for the author’s or organization’s name on the Web page. If not indicated,
look for it on the same Web site.
2. The following links might help find this information:
 About Link
 Home Link
 Contact Us Link
 Mission Statement Link
 Backtrack on the URL

What is a URL?
The acronym URL stands for “uniform resource locator”. More commonly, most
people just refer to the URL as the web address. Every page on the Web has its own
URL.

Some More Useful Tips

It is helpful to keep a notepad and pen beside you so you can write down areas of
student that will need further research. You can even list down the names of other
search engines.

Remember that search engines may not have everything you need. As a budding
researcher, you have to appreciate the importance or significance of other sources,
too. You can consult other Web search tools and the ever dependable library
catalogue. The Internet is not a substitute for the library. It is a tool best used in
addition to traditional research sources.

Source:http://www/yorka.ca/webclass/(last accessed on 1 July 2015)