Electronic research extends teaching and learning opportunities by providing
access to a vast array of information resources;
access to a variety of models developed by others through previous research; connections among people, places and products
.
Skills developed through electronic research significantly increase the level of information literacy among teachers and students. Because electronic research makes it so easy to access the work of others on any given topic, it is critical that users understand the concept of authorship and recognize the need to comply with copyright law.

Key Learnings (Benchmarks)

Novice Level

Locates, retrieves, and uses specific information from teacher-selected web sites and electronic library catalogs with teacher guidance. Identifies source of information..

Intermediate Level

Uses online encyclopedias, magazine indexes, and electronic library catalogs to search for topic-specific information. Gathers information by doing simple online searches. Lists all URLs used in gathering textual information and/or graphics.

Advanced Level

Selects and refines key words related to topic being studied. Uses a variety of print and online sources and learns that some sources are more productive than others for a given topic. Searches online independently to gather information. Includes all electronic sources used in bibliography.

Superior Level

Uses technology to support learning and research by independently choosing the most appropriate sources. Demonstrates effective searching skills and evaluates the validity of sources.