Google Research Tool, Or "Kids These Days Have It So Easy!"

Let me preface this entry by saying that here in Belmar, we have the awesome privilege of receiving bi-weekly Google PD from Google Certified Trainer +Rich Kiker, and our Dynamic Tech Duo- +Pamela Lockwood and +Kevin O'Donnell . The opportunity to be exposed to new apps, tools, extensions, features, etc. and to be given the TIME to play with them has been such a great experience. 

Today we were introduced to the Research Tool in Google Docs. My initial (and still current) reaction- A lifesaver! A god-sent! A real game changer for my classroom!

How does it work? In Google Docs, navigate to the Tools tab, and select Research. 

You will open a side-tab inside your document that will allow you to look for information, photos, quotes, definitions, scholarly articles,  and tables that have to do with your research topic.

Another built-in feature that is going to work really well in my classroom is the ability to automatically cite websites and images. Looking at the Research tab, click the down-arrow to open the Citation preferences.

Here you can change the citation format to fit your assignment. We are just beginning to use MLA format, so this feature is going to be HUGE for our upcoming Biography project unit. 

Below is a sample of some information I found on one of the Biography subjects my students will be researching, Muhhamad Ali. I was able to find information, a quote, a picture, and a table of all of Ali's wins and losses. Notice that next to each piece is a footnote that has the MLA citation. I am so excited to use the Research tools with my students! 

I only wish this had been around when I was in college!


Leave me a comment, and let me know how you plan on using this feature in your classroom! Until next time!