Google Tools Day 3- Research Tools

Having more than one internet window or tab open while working on a project can be confusing and cumbersome, especially with a touch mouse pad on the Chromebooks.  Google has a Research Tool that opens within Google Docs, Spreadsheets, Drawings, and Presentations so students can search to find images, video, quotes, or references. Not only can links and media quickly be inserted from the research pane, but citation information can also be added as footnotes.

Thoughts

With students able to research directly from their Google drive project, it is much faster and easier for students to get the information they need.  I really like the ability for students to drag pictures into their assignment without leaving the window. You access it by clicking on Tools in the top menu and the pane shows up on the right hand side of your window.  

Then students can type in anything they need to research and find images, quotes, definitions, or just a simple web search for more information.

Students can also highlight the word or phrase, right click on it and choose "Research (highlighted word)".  It will bring the results up in the research pane.  I think this would also be great for students to learn more about a topic if the teacher provides a document.  They can highlight any word or phrase and click research to learn more.  

How I Have Used It

Students have used this tool when creating their 8th grade advice presentations to add in images. My 6th graders used it to fill in their Weathering and Erosion booklet since they needed both definitions and pictures.

Google Docs and Drive is a great place for students to work and research and Google is making it easy to use. We are so lucky to be getting Chromebooks so we can access these tools in every class, every day.  What a great way to transform your classroom :)
Research on!
Jen