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Learning Online

Searching and Researching

Angela Newton

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is part of the Going to University collection which has been specifically designed for students at schools and colleges. They provide a taster of undergraduate study at the University of Leeds and help students to decide which subject to study at university. Completion of the courses will also enhance students’ university applications. The courses can also be used as a teachers’ classroom enrichment resource. Courses in this collection are also great for people that want an introduction in the specific subjects discussed in each course. You can use the hashtag #FLresearchOnline to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

Searching effectively online using a variety of search engines and tools
Combining information from multiple sources, blending online and offline materials to aid research
Sharing research to collaboratively develop a broader understanding of topics
Assessing and evaluating information: considering the authority, timeliness and relevance of sources to ensure validity
Critical thinking: utilising information and providing context to research to aid the drawing of conclusions

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Reviews summary

Foundational online research skills

According to students, this course provides a solid foundation in the essential skills needed for effective online searching and research. Many found the content clear, well-structured, and particularly beneficial for those new to formal research or preparing for university study. Learners appreciated the focus on evaluating information sources and developing critical thinking. While largely positive, some more experienced learners found the material quite basic, indicating it's best suited as an introduction.

Structure is logical and easy to follow.

"The course was well laid out, with clear steps and topics."

"Content is presented in a very clear and understandable way."

"Appreciated the logical flow from searching to evaluating to thinking critically."

"Easy to navigate and progress through the modules."

Perfect introduction to online research basics.

"This course is really great for anyone who is new to online learning or needs help researching things."

"Excellent starting point for students transitioning to higher education."

"The content is explained simply and is easy to grasp for beginners."

"Felt very accessible even with no prior research experience."

Provides practical skills for online research.

"Helped me understand how to use search engines and tools more effectively."

"Learned how to combine information from multiple sources correctly."

"Provided good guidance on evaluating sources for validity and relevance."

"Gave me skills I can use for academic research."

May be too simple for experienced users.

"If you already have experience with academic research, this course might feel a bit too basic."

"Found the content was mostly things I already knew."

"Could benefit from more advanced techniques or deeper dives into tools."

"Good as a refresher, but not challenging if you've done research before."

Career center

Learners who complete Learning Online: Searching and Researching will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Learning Online: Searching and Researching.

Exploring Methods in Information Literacy Research

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Provides a comprehensive overview of literature searching, including how to use library databases, develop effective search strategies, and evaluate the quality of information. It valuable resource for students at all levels, as well as researchers and professionals.

Learning Online

Topics Covered

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Reviews summary

Foundational online research skills

Career center

Reading list

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