I did already know most of what was covered about search engines prior to the activity.
I don't think this knowledge will effect my future searches, and I don't teach, so that isn't an issue. I do however feel that search engines are relevant to learning. we as students have access to more information then any previous generation, and it is bound to have an effect on how learning occurs, as well as what is learned. Generally speaking, I usually use google, as I find it the most easy to use, and practical. That said, there are certain contexts where other search engines, particularly academic ones are preferable. I am however looking at different search methods in response to recent information and changes in how google conducts privacy policy. I haven't seen any so far that meet all of my criteria so if anyone has any advice I would appreciate it.
In the future, I feel like search engines will be better equipped to provide narrow searches that automatically filter out certain websites. At the moment, a good deal of what is immediately displayed has little to do with relevance and more to do with advertising or how busy a site is, and I feel like this is detrimental. It's hard to predict the future of technology as it is so rapid in it's production, but I have seen glimmers of what innovations might be on the way. Currently they are developing interesting home computer devices that use touch technology and occupy other functions, and I feel like these would be innovations that would benefit from new research and development in internet search websites.
In conclusion, I feel that the internet has provided easy access to an almost infinite amount of information, and I think it has a positive effect on learning. I think when they perfect things like conveying books through computer media, it will create an entire new venue for studying. I feel that in particular, students in other countries will benefit from this, and it will allow new avenues for cultural exchange. Although it is difficult to filter out extraneous websites, ones that have dubious sources, and false information, I think it is still worth incorporating this technology into the classroom. Students these days are growing up with this technology, and it is important to teach in a way that relates to them.
