On-line Features of Information Databases

SEARCH FEATURES (How easily can kids find the information?)

· Basic Searches

· Keyword or natural language

· Advanced Searches

· Boolean (and, or, not)

· Specific date range

· Specific format

· Choice of full-text or abstract

· Reading level indicated

· Bolds search terms

MATERIALS AVAILABLE:

· Number of periodical/resources (full-text vs. citations)

· Age appropriate

· Curriculum connected

· Pictures

· Maps

· Books

· Encyclopedia articles

· Pamphlets

· Essential documents of American History

· Others: Dictionary, Thesaurus, Almanac

· Newspaper

SEARCH INTERFACE (How easily can kids get around?)

· Is it kid-friendly?

· How easy is it to work independently

· Is "help" easy to understand? Is there a tutorial?

· Is it easy to navigate?

· Any special features?

ACCESS FEATURES:

· Single user name/password

· Remote site access

RESULTS:

· Age appropriate

· Useful

· Adequate amount of full-text available

· Linked to relevant websites

· Results ranked in different ways: date, relevance, title, abc order

· Results list:

· print marked items only or entire list

· save list, copy to clipboard

· Print all or part of article

· E-mail material home

· Sample of citing source

CURRENCY OF UPDATES

· Daily, Weekly, Monthly