How can you set up students for success as they embark on research tasks? If you are helping students understand how to search for information online, you may want to focus on keyword searches. Today, I have six ways to support student keyword searches with activities you can customize this school year.
So much of my work this year has been focused on chatbots. You might have joined me for a webinar or workshop on this topic or grabbed a copy of my quick reference guide on Using AI Chatbots to Enhance Planning and Instruction. With tools like ChatGPT and Gemini making their way into educational settings, it might be tempting to move away from traditional search engines like Google.
It’s crucial that students understand how to navigate online spaces, including search engines. If you want to support student keyword searches this year, I have a few quick tips to explore!
How to Help Kids Conduct Keyword Searches
In my book EdTech Essentials: 12 Strategies for Every Classroom in the Age of AI, 2nd Edition, I have a chapter dedicated to “Navigate Online Spaces Effectively.” This chapter includes a section called “Guiding Students’ Online Search Experiences,” where I share some strategies educators can customize for their students.
In today’s blog post, I’ve pulled an excerpt from the book (p.14) and included a few extra tips to try out.
Ready for more? Check out the book here. Already have a copy? Make sure to grab the free study guide.
6 Ways to Support Student Keyword Searches
Share keyword search strategies
For example, you might highlight the strategy of using a phrase instead of a complete sentence or question. If this is the first strategy you focus on, choose an example that connects to your content area or a task students are about to tackle.
Brainstorm beforehand
Brainstorm potential keywords and search terms with students before sending them off to work independently or with a partner. This can give them a starting point that sets them up for success.
Post common search queries
If you anticipate that certain search terms will be popular for students to use, post them in a place students can easily view. This way, students do not have to worry about spelling errors, which can lead to unhelpful results or frustration.
Give troubleshooting advice
If the results of student search queries are not helping them find useful information, give some troubleshooting advice. For example, remind students to check for misspellings or encourage them to try a new keyword or phrase.
Try voice-to-text
Let students know about voice-to-text search options. This feature is available on many websites and mobile apps. You can model how to conduct a voice-to-text search and how to address any errors with the dictation technology. Note: these tools will often require students to grant the tool permission to use their device’s microphone.
Explore advanced search
Introduce students to advanced search options to help them find a specific type of result or file. For example, Google and YouTube have advanced search options to let users search for content published in the last few months or the previous year. Advanced search features are often hidden next to the search bar; look for the word Filters or Tools to help you refine your searches.
Helping students develop strong keyword search skills is an essential part of preparing them to navigate online spaces effectively. From brainstorming keywords to exploring advanced search options, the strategies shared in this post can make a big difference in students’ research success. Whether they’re tackling a classroom project or diving into independent learning, these tips can help students approach online searches with confidence and purpose.
If you’re looking for even more practical strategies to support your students, don’t forget to check out the new edition of EdTech Essentials: 12 Strategies for Every Classroom in the Age of AI. It’s packed with actionable tips and ideas, including how to guide students through online search experiences. Already have a copy? Make sure to download the free study guide! You’ll find even more ways to put these strategies into action in your classroom.