Abstract:
Middle grade students search the Internet for information using a variety of
popular search engines. Nettrekker, a search engine that yields prescreened,
educator approved links, is available for students to use, but it is often not their
first choice. This action research was conducted to determine the effects of search
engine instruction on student willingness to use Nettrekker. Four sixth grade
classes in a large suburban middle school received instruction and opportunities to
practice with Nettrekker over a three-week period. Data indicated students found
that Nettrekker yielded plentiful quality information that was relevant to their
topics. Nearly all students indicated that they would continue to use Nettrekker
for future assignments. The results of the study were shared at an evening
gathering of administrators, teachers, parents and students. The results will also
be shared to a large number of school district personnel at a summer leadership
institute.