Using keywords
Also known as: smart search, search strategies
Keyword and Boolean search strategies are essential for effectively navigating the internet and finding useful information to answer a novel problem. Teaching students how to use keywords also means teaching them to break down a question or problem to get the keywords, which is an important part of the problem-solving process. Try giving students a problem with a diagram to complicate their usual problem-solving strategy. Use broad, open questions that do not have easy answers. Model the process of analysis when introducing a research task.
ICT templates
Make sure you are logged into your Microsoft (new window) or Google (new window) account before accessing these templates. For more support refer to Getting started with technology (new window).
| Office 365 | Google G Suite |
|---|---|
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PowerPoint template - Using keywords multiple scaffolds (new window)
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Slides template - Using keywords multiple scaffolds (new window)
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How to use with ICT
There are some online activities that can be used to encourage students to develop their search skills – A Google a Day (new window) is one example. When designing research or online inquiry tasks, make sure the task requires analysis and breaking up before it can be searched. Put a complex question up on the screen and ask students to work in small groups to find relevant research using Google Scholar (new window). Compare results from different searches and discuss which ones are more useful. Use shared documents for group work.
Single computer
Project the inquiry question on the board and work as a class to brainstorm different topics and searches that would find useful information on the topic.
External resources
| Title | Link | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Google Search Education | Google Search Education (new window) | A comprehensive collection of lesson plans and other resources for teaching students basic, intermediate and advanced search skills. |
| Boolify | Boolify (new window) | A block-based introduction to Boolean search that shows how results change as you refine your terms. |
| A Google a Day | A Google a Day (new window) | Gamified activity that encourages students to develop their research skills by posing complex questions that cannot be answered with a single search. |
| Google advanced search | Google advanced search (new window) | Google search with extra fields that scaffolds using some Boolean search options and shows how to use them in the standard search bar. |
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Personalised learning
Disability, Learning and Support
When planning to use technology in the classroom it is important to consider the diversity of your learners. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework to guide the design of learning environments that are accessible and effective for all. For UDL guidelines, information and additional materials, visit the CAST website.
Many students require technology as an adjustment to support their access to learning. Adjustments (NESA) are actions taken that enable a student with disability and additional learning needs to access syllabus outcomes and content on the same basis as their peers. Enrol in the Personalised learning with technology online course to help you make more informed decisions regarding technology.
For a range of simple, how-to videos visit the Assistive Technology page on the Disability, Learning and Support website. Resources are organised into four sections; Literacy and Learning, Vision, Hearing, Physical and Motor Skills.
High potential and gifted learning and support
When planning to use technology in the classroom it is important to consider the full range of abilities of all learners. High potential and gifted learners may require additional adjustments and deliberate talent development. These strategies include differentiation, grouping, enrichment and advanced learning pathways so students can be engaged, grow and achieve their personal best.
Assessing and identifying high potential and gifted learners will help teachers decide which students may benefit from extension and additional challenge. Effective strategies and contributors to achievement for high potential and gifted learners helps teachers to identify and target areas for growth and improvement.
For further support and advice about how to tailor learning for high potential and gifted students from all backgrounds, visit the High Potential and Gifted Education web section, High Potential and Gifted Education Policy or attend one of the professional learning courses on offer.