Thing 5. Google Tools

Everyone uses Google. It has even become a verb--Googling. One of the things that makes Google so appealing in addition to the search is the range of tools that are available if you have a Google account. We could have 23 Things All About Google! However, in this Thing, we limit the exploration to some of the more useful, non-search tools and some of the lesser-known features of the search tools. You can find all Google Tools here.

For this Thing’s activities, choose at least one item from each category and experiment using it. Rather than re-create all of this info here, you will be re-directed to the More Things On a Stick wiki for the Google tools. Keep in mind this was written for library staff; if something says, "How would you use this in your library?" think school instead.

There are brief descriptions of the services and links to the Google tutorials/info about the tool and when available, other links to reviews, blog posts, and other evaluative information. If available, similar tools or services from other sources are listed if Google is not your cup of tea for everything you do.

Search Tools

• Alerts--Get email updates on any Google search term
  
• Google News--One search retrieves aggregated list of headline news
• SearchWiki--Customize Google search results
  
• Web History--Track your Google use

Productivity

• GMail--a new kind of webmail, built on the idea that email can be more intuitive, efficient, and useful.
• Calendar--free online shareable calendar service.
  
• Sites one click Web-site creation to collaborate & share info with family, friends, work, or groups.

Everyone should try this one--Goog-411. Put that right into your speed dial!

Blog Prompts
Think about these things when you blog.

• Which tools did you try?
• Are any of the tools useful for you, your family, school, other activities--teams, clubs, etc.?
• Useful in school?