2.4.3.1 Internet search tools

The Internet has no overriding organisational scheme or structure, so it can be difficult to identify resources specific to a topic.

There are two types of Internet search tools:

• subject directories
• search engines

Subject directories are browsing tools. Resources are located by selecting from hierarchical lists of subject headings. A subject directory is a database of Internet resources selected and evaluated by people.

Search engines are finding tools. Resources are located by entering keywords. A search engine searches a database of Internet resources identified by a computer program and as such these resources have not been evaluated in any way.

Much of the information on the Internet has commercial aim. A number of useful, academic Internet sites are linked from the Library Web pages, these have been organised by subject and faculty by the Faculty Librarians.

Consider the following tips to refine your general searching.