| SEARCH TYPE |
DEFINITION |
EXAMPLES | ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
| SEARCH ENGINE | A search engine searches for information by keyword. Use a search engine to find specific information. | Contains a large database that is often more up-to-date than a directory. | Usually not very accurate in the way it indexes and retrieves documents. | |
| META-SEARCH ENGINE | A meta-search engine does simultaneous searches on several search engines. | Speeds up the process and eliminates repetition. | For in-depth searches, it is usually better to dig deeper in one search engine. | |
| DIRECTORY | A directory searches for information by SUBJECT. It starts with a broad subject and gives the user more choices to narrow the subject. | Information is placed in directories by skilled people so the hits are usually more accurate. This is a great way to narrow your search especially when your number of hits is overwhelming. It's a great place to start if you don't know exactly what you are looking for. | Directories are usually smaller and updated less frequently. | |
| DATABASE | A database is an organized collection of information. Generally, a database indexes articles in journals (magazines). | Michigan Electronic Library | Articles found on a web-based database can usually be found in hardcover or print form. They are usually considered "credible sources" and are subject to copyright. | Limited access. Electronic databases are products of commercials firms and therefore aren't available to the general public. Some databases provided text or only abstracts of articles. |
April 3, 2007