Project #15

Bing

Bing is a broad based search engine where you can find many different sources on a certain topic. The homepage has a simple layout that is easy to navigate. You simply type what you wish to search in the empty search box and click on the button with that magnifier glass. When the results appear you have the option to click on tabs at the top for more specific results. The tabs are "Web", "Images", "Videos"," Maps", "News", and "More". Also on the right hand side of the screen is a section for related searches that can help you find more information. I have used Bing many times and I find that it very easy to navigate. The related search column is a great tool because it shows you different searches that contain the word(s) that you used. Bing makes it easy to find useful information that you may not have been originally looking for. Bing presents an uncluttered homepage which I prefer. I also enjoy the background pictures that have interesting facts that you can click on and the fact that there is a new background everyday.

Mystart.incredibar.com

This is a basic, broad search engine that you can use to find many different sources on things you'd like to search. You just type what you want to search in the empty search bar and hit the search button. I do not recommend using this search engine. The security is extremely low. You are constantly bombarded with ads and pop ups. I am aware of this search engine because it has taken over my preferred search engine before. It acts almost like a virus, it attaches itself to downloads and then replaces your set homepage. It is possible to get rid of it but it can be a little tricky. My advice, if you have it don't use it!

Ask.com

Ask is a search engine that is geared more towards answering questions. You type your question into the blank box then click "find answers". Ask is suitable for people who prefer a simple homepage with clearly labeled links. When you ask your question the results come up reality quickly. Sometimes a definition of what you searched is given along with popular Q&A's. For example, when I asked the question "What is a drought?" I was give three definitions for the word drought. I have used this search engine in the past and do not have any complaints about it.

Artcyclopedia.com

Artcyclopedia is a comprehensive artist database. You are able to search for artist, artworks, and museums. A search will return images, articles and – best of all – listings for galleries all over the world housing specific paintings. (lifehack.org) Artcyclopedia is a great tools to use for reports, projects, or just your own interest of famous art works. You are able to search for an artist by their name, what medium the use/used, their subjects, their nationality, and what movement they were a part of. You can also find out what museums have certain works of art on display.

Library of Congress

The Library of Congress is a colossal digital version of our nations largest and oldest library. This website is exceptional for teachers and students. There is a search bar at the top where you can type in what you'd like to search or you could pick from the various links that are on the homepage. You can find old newspaper's, videos, sound recordings, maps, manuscripts, and so much more just on the homepage. there is a column that tells you what is currently on exhibit and how to schedule a class visit. There is also an interactive element with the ability to ask a librarian a question via an online forum and sometime through direct chat. After exploring this site this is one I would recommend to all teachers.

Wolfram|Alpha

I had never heard of Wolfram Alpha before so I was excited to try it out. At first I was a little confused because this search engine is not one that I am familiar with. The first page is very simple with a search bar to enter what you want to know or calculate. Once you input what you'd like you click the "=" button. Instead of the results being links to follow you are given actual results. There is a input interpretation box so you can see if it understands what exactly you are asking. Perhaps my favorite part about this site so far are the calculations and conversions. This is a great tool for students to use. I also appreciate that providing feedback to the site is so easy.

Duck Duck Go

Duck duck go is a broad based search engine that protects your privacy while you search. Duck Duck Go does not track your search history nor does it share your personal information. The home page has an extremely simple layout with a search bar in the center. Type what you would like to search in the empty bar and click enter or the magnifying glass. The result come up very quickly and are easy to navigate. You can personalize the theme, font, layout, text size, text color, and many other elements. Duck Duck Go is remarkably user friendly. I would recommend Duck Duck Go so anyone looking for a little more security while browsing the web.

KidRex

KidRex is a kid friendly search engine that makes surfing the web safer for kids. KidRex is powered by Google so the layout and function is practically the same. KidRex blocks sites that maybe inappropriate based on words and urls. KidRex is a great option for children who want to be a little more independent and for parents who want that extra piece of mind. When my daughter is old enough to use the internet this would definitely be a search engine I would feel more comfortable with. Let's face it, there are some things that no one wants their children/students to see. I am glad to see a search engine that tries to protect children's innocence.