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Where to begin? I admit that I am still a little overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information we’re learning about searching. There are so many more tools, databases and websites than I ever imagined. It’s been great to have the opportunity to learn about these resources and begin to apply them to my current work, not to mention think about how I could employ them in a future setting as a school library media specialist. I definitely feel like a more confident searcher, even when approaching a new database or web search engine. I am also impressed by the collaborative nature of the search community. We’ve heard from so many professionals in the “voices of search” interviews talk about the importance of twitter and other social media as important tools for sharing information. It’s given me a new perspective on the professional usefulness of social media.

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I did not anticipate how much I would enjoy this class, and how fascinating search can be.  I expected to come away with search strategies and knowledge of more databases.  I am building that knowledge, but also have discovered the world of social search, the many layers of the web, and a genuine interest in the science of searching, finding, and how search engines work.

I loved the Google Powersearching MOOC and always enjoy Voices of Search.  It has been especially valuable to see different ways the VOS are using information science degrees.  My presumed specificity of careers for MI degree holders was something that held me back from applying to SCI for several years.  I was afraid I would change my mind about being a librarian, despite having first-hand knowledge of what library staff life is like.  I no longer anticipate that I will change my mind, but I'm confident that even if I do my MI will not go to waste.

I appreciate that we are given multiple ways to engage with and practice using the course content.  These varied methods have kept me interested, and helped me understand some topics that seemed unapproachable at first.  The lists of applications to explore (Smore, Padlet, ScoopIt, etc) was also overwhelming at first, but as I have had time to play with them I have discovered some really useful tools that I actually enjoy using.  It would have been helpful for me to be aware of some of these applications even sooner in my time here at Rutgers.  At first I was not pleased to see that we were assigned a weekly search activity in addition to weekly discussion postings and long term projects, but I have found each activity to reinforce the topics of the week and given me a chance to practice a real-life application of said topic.  Although this course is keeping me busy, none of it is busy work.

-Jacquelyn Tasker

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The introduction to new tools, new techniques and the expanse of searchable information has been amazing.  The ahas from this course that excite me the most are better characterized as What!?!?! or No Way!

The existence of so many subscription databases was interesting.  However, the access to some of these databases through my state and local libraries was incredible!  In my previous classes, I stumbled through the Rutgers databases having never known that such a creature existed (my undergrad experience was heavily technical and extremely light on research).  Though I could benefit from more practice, I am now comfortable in that environment.

In regards to Tucker’s threshold concepts, the information environment is the toughest for me to cross.  The word “total” holds me back.  Information structures are more concrete as are the information vocabularies.  Concept fusion seems to be a natural progression as understanding and practice of the previous threshold concepts increases.

I was comfortable searching with Google prior to this class, but I was amazed by the aha of Google Custom Search!  I would like to find more time to really sit down and explore the other search engines more closely, particularly Instagrok and WolframAlpha.

The readings and lesson paths are worthwhile, but I find the Voices in search much more engaging, possibly due to the enthusiasm that exudes from those pre-recorded talks.  As much as I enjoy Voices in Search, I consider the weekly Search Activities as the most beneficial aspect of this course thus far.  They are great practice.

Unfortunately, I have struggled to keep up with the social media angle of the course; therefore, I do not have an opinion on #WSN, Pinterest, etc.  I am interested to see how the upcoming lessons will benefit me and possibly change my attitude toward that online culture.

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1. I have learned so much in this class, and we're only half-way through! I have learned how to evaluate a database to see if it will let a searcher use Boolean Logic or not. I love proximity, truncation, wildcards, and controlled language searches. I also have learned how to properly berry-pick in order to find the right words (ex. scientific terms).
2. Prior to this class I really didn't know how to properly search any database, that includes Google. The filetype search was awesome, and I still use it! My toolbox went from a keyword search to my toolbox almost overflowing with different types of search tools. I'm going to need a bigger toolbox. Dan Russell's Google tips were incredible.
3. The Command Line Search on ProQuest was also eye opening. It was a bit challenging, but it was very helpful. I'm confident that I could retrieve reliable sources with a Command Line Search.
4. There are several databases that I didn't know about before this class. I will continue to use them in the future.
5. This class got me out of my comfort zone. I am on social media for the first time in years. I have realized that in order to be a successful librarian, you have to be very social.
6. I learned how to make a video/ screen cast for class!
7. I am excited about the second half of the semester

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Tools - I feel like my very tiny ill-equipped tool kit that I started the semester with (it was mostly just a hammer) has turned into a big metal tool box, I imagine by the end of the semester, I may have a tool shed. Between having a better understanding about the databases offered as well as what each one offers in itself I’m a much more confident and effective searcher. Now I do still keep notes handy, and shortcuts listed in my toolbars, but I’m working on it. Thesauruses, proximity searching, and wildcards have changed my searches.

Google - I only knew the very basics of the Google surface. Now, Dan Russell may be my new best friend. The ability to create CSE, and utilize Google’s other sections is such a great resource.

More than Google - Like others have said, I knew there were other search engines out there, but I didn’t use them. Now I have tabs on my browsers for my favorites, and a list of the others. Being able to select the right tool for the job is key in an information landscape that is always growing and changing.

PLN - Between social media, professional associations, and in-person contacts, my network is slowly coming together. Before this class I honestly hadn’t thought much about it, but now I try to spend time each week developing it a little more.

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1. One of the best parts of this class is the fact that I have developed new skills, foremost of which is being able to actually evaluate a database in terms of its functionality, content, and usability. I have actual points of reference now as to what a database’s minimum affordances should be, what affordances are “above and beyond” or more specialized, an idea of the levels of subject specificity that databases have, and how to get into the “guts” of a database and really play around with what it has to offer. I feel that this course, Digital Libraries, and even Introduction to Cataloging all approach the same problem from different angles – how to rewire your brain to interface with a database as effectively as possible. It is almost like learning how to think, again: a set of skills that not only did I not have, but I did not even knew existed – and exist almost at a level below language.

2. My second AHA! is my awareness of how deep and sprawling the search engine world is: there is so much information, organized so opaquely, with a hodgepodge of good stuff and garbage showing up in virtually every search done through Google/Facebook/the other “Big Search” platforms. It is almost necessary to have a librarian-level knowledge of search, because otherwise it would be so easy to get overwhelmed with useless or false information. This state of affairs is a little concerning; needing specialist knowledge to have a basic level of functioning is not a situation that we should be in.

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Andrew's Midsemester "Ahas" and Reflections

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Andrew's Midsemester "Ahas" and Reflections

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Some of my most significant takeaways from our weekly discussions and our lectures stem from realizing the enormity and sheer amount of different databases that exist on the web and can be accessed and utilized by anyone (not just info pros). The complexities of searching are far more clear to me now than they were when I entered this class and, as a public librarian, I thought that I had a handle on searching databases already. I've learned so much in the past few weeks, that one of the most challenging aspects of the class has actually been retaining all of the new search skills so that they may be put to good use later. Perhaps my favorite takeaway was the recent exercise of creating a custom Google search engine. Not only was that fun, but that cut be put to such good use in any number of work settings. I have already begun setting up one to include in my LibGuide for Assignment #2. I have been largely disappointed with my experiences at Rutgers, so it is an almost joyous sensation to be part of a class that I find so exciting and enlightening. So far, this course stands out above the rest. I can't remember the last time I heard anyone talk about a thrill that stemmed from a homework assignment, yet that has not been uncommon for us in 530.90.

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I have to say, this class has been a huge step in thinking of myself as an information professional and not just an information student. I've been able to transition from using the search process myself to helping others in their search process. There are tools I hadn't been exposed to before; such as proximity searching and controlled vocabulary. This class is adding to my professional toolkit each week, which I think is the point of the course! There hasn't been a lesson that I can't make a direct connection to my job currently or the career I hope to have.Using the search tools across a variety of platforms is giving me confidence in my searching skills.

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I’m thrilled to have a toolbox for search.  At this point, I’m feeling like I need to deliberately pull some tools out and practice with them more to decide which are truly top-tray tools for my purposes.  Some are obvious; some I just don’t want to forget because they’ll be used less often but are not less useful.

As we move along, picking up new pieces of information about search and identifying even more information sources, I don’t want to lose track of the things we spoke of in our first weeks concerning how actually hidden databases are at our libraries.  I don’t want to forget the importance of figuring out ways to highlight them for our patrons and communities.

Although I’ve picked up reasons to appreciate social media and the kinds of information/interaction and timeliness it can provide, I mostly think of it as something for other people.  I signed up for Twitter because of this class and have carefully followed only a handful of seemingly useful people and organizations.  I absolutely hate it and feel it exists simply to annoy me, “Hey, did you know about this???” and “Hey, what about this too?” and “Hey, here’s an irritating thing, maybe it can irritate you now too.”  It’s incessant and I ignore most all of it.   So I need to figure out a balance there because there’s an awful lot of bathwater to throw out to just get to the baby.  It’s wearying.

One of the most useful things is the fact we have “gone under the hood” of databases and search engines.  It is knowledge that helps me think differently about any odd results I do get because I have a better understanding of how that comes about and how to fix it, such as checking the helps page!  Who knew?

This is a fabulous, practical, useful course.  I think it should be an MI requirement.

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Search Tools
Databases have a ton of built in search tools that can really help shape/narrow a search.  My new favorite search tools are proximity searching, wildcards, and, perhaps my top favorite, the database thesaurus!  I had no idea these tools existed, and they're hugely helpful.
Google's Additional Search Functionality
I knew there was a ton of search functionality within Google, but I never realized quite how much.  I really enjoyed learning about things like how you can search by document type and domain.  Google custom search is pretty awesome as well!
There are more search engines than Google!
Okay, so I always knew this one, but I rarely utilized other search engines.  I'm beginning to realize the extent of search engines out there, and how certain ones are better for different types of searching/results.
Linked Data
I wasn't familiar with the concept of linked data before this class.  If all (or at least mass quantities) of data can be linked on the internet, it can really transform our searches and the amount of related content our searches retrieve.

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Searching Skills

I think the way that I search for information and present that information is different. I’m willing to try new search engines and databases when looking for information instead of falling back to the familiar Google. The way I conduct my searches has shifted as well. I’m more confident with searching in databases and using their search tools. These have even positively affected how I use the tools in search engines. Listening to the weekly voices of search I have an understanding of the basic structure of some of the databases which allows me to better work with them.

Social Media

I’m still hesitant of social media but I am beginning to embrace it more. I think it’s important to be aware of the conversations that are going on in the different areas of the library world and social media is a platform that allows institutions, organizations, and people to connect and voice their opinions. I continue to look at social media as solely for the purpose of staying connected to the library and museum world. It serves this purpose well.

Sharing Ideas

One thing that was highlighted in week 8’s Voices of Search is that it’s ok to ask for help. Reaching out to other librarians, especially in a field like law, is ok and encouraged. There are many subjects that I don’t know about and I love that this world is open to sharing information and bouncing ideas around. I work best when I have a conversation and toss ideas around. It almost seems counterintuitive to be a librarian and not share information with other librarians.

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1. In terms of having crossed any thresholds, I think my biggest threshold to cross would be social media. I don't feel like I have crossed that threshold yet, as I still do not see its usefulness. But, I am still open minded. I have never closed myself off to the possibility of social media being an asset for librarians or for the general public. I can still cross that threshold.

2. I have come to the realization that there are A LOT of library resources out there, and sometimes it seems impossible to learn them all, but then I remember that I am an avid reader, and that it is actually impossible to read every book in the world, yet I am slowly making my way through them. I plan on continuing to slowly make my way through library resources as well, and learn them one by one. I think it is important to stop any feelings of being overwhelmed.

3. When I first thought of becoming a school librarian, I imagined myself sitting in a large room filled with windows, a bright sun shining through, fall leaves outside, silence, and just books everywhere. Though that still may be the case, I certainly no longer imagine myself just reading all of those wonderful books. There is so much more to being a librarian that I had imagined, and so many searching tools I never thought would be so hard (like command line...) Being a good librarian clearly takes practice and dedication, and I suppose I am still wondering if I want to do that, or if I just want to read the books.

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1. I am starting to see how my MI classes are linked. This is my 5th class, and I see the connections between HIB, Reference, Cataloging, and Search come together.  I recognize the names of important contributors in the field, and I am learning the lingo, little by little.
2. Ask for help!  The world of search is big and time is short.  Many of the Voices of Search interviews have mentioned that reaching out to other librarians and using social media can get the job done.
3. Pick the right tool for the job.  I have enjoyed investigating the many different databases that are available through our libraries.  Honestly, I have a greater appreciation for databases as a result.
4. Develop your PLN. Because the field of search is changing so rapidly, it's important to develop a network of colleagues to help stay on top of new developments.

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I think my biggest takeaways from class so far fall into two major categories:

1. There is a ridiculously overwhelming amount of digital information out there. This has a lot of subsections to it, like how incredibly easy it can be to access all of that information - maybe too easy; and the difficulty of weeding the reliable sources from the less-than-reliable sources, and helping others see the difference, too; and how knowing a few key tricks (facets, operators, database thesauri) can really help wade through the irrelevant stuff to get to the heart of the matter.

2. The “tricks” of the trade aren’t as insanely difficult to learn as I’d feared. I mean, if you get into the XML and the RDA and the SPARQL, yeah, it gets pretty complex. But the really useful search tools mostly seem to boil down to a few levers and fulcrums: Take the time to think through your query. Pinpoint the main facets. Consider how those facets might be combined or grouped, and what synonyms might be used.

I don’t mean to imply that I feel I’ve already learned all there is to learn - far from it! Each week brings some new discoveries. But they’ve mostly been more along the lines of, “Oh, that’s pretty neat!”, as opposed to, “Wow! I have to realign my entire understanding of the cosmos!” I’m enjoying learning more, and trying to maintain the balance between “really useful” and “overwhelming”. =)

I think, too, that this class has made me realize the importance of using these pieces of information and skills regularly. I find there have been several lessons this semester where I’ve found myself thinking, “Oh, yeah - I remember doing this once a few years back,” and it’s a great technique or tool, but then it fell by the wayside and didn’t get picked up again and I forgot it existed. I hope, though, that as search becomes an ever-more-important everyday task for everyone, a lot of these things become part of the average person’s working vocabulary, rather than being something that’s used once or twice a year at school.

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1. I've made progress and I have a lot of progress to make.
I developed a lot of my search skills primarily because of this course. Prior to this semester, I vaguely knew about search tools such as Boolean operators, proximity operators, and truncation, but I only knew them by name. Now I am able to put those search tools to practice because of the lessons and activities from this online course. That being said, there's still plenty more for me to learn. Even though I am starting to get confident using the various search tools, there are other aspects of searching and information science I need to discover. For example, the topics of linked data and metadata is a whole new frontier that I'm decently excited to learn more about.
2. I'm beginning to think like a librarian.
Prior to this course, I don't think I had a similar style of thinking as librarians. I didn't use facet analysis to break queries down into key concepts and rather opted to search using the full query I came up. Similarly, I rarely re-worded my queries in different ways, but focused on only 1 or 2 query versions at most. I never quite thought about the needs of patrons outside of their query as well - specifically, I rarely considered the contextual background of the patron and focused solely on the patron's query instead. Reading about library science and trying relevant search activities has helped me keep in mind various aspects and techniques that can be consistently useful for librarians.
3. I'm significantly less reliant on Google, although I certainly enjoy using it.
Last semester, I didn't think twice about limiting my search platforms to Google, Google Scholar, and anything the reference librarian would suggest me to use from the Rutgers Library list of databases. At the midpoint of this course, I feel more confident in spending time to browse through the various databases available to me and using them in conjunction to Google and Google Scholar.

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I'm really enjoying all of the search strategies and tools that I've learned in this course thus far. My favorite part so far was probably going over the toolkit strategies. Some of these strategies I already knew and utilize frequently, but others were new and I was eager to practice and become more proficient in them. As an undergrad, I did research quickly to get a fast reference for a paper or project. Now I see that search is something to take slowly in order to get the most relevant and efficient sources. As much as I have learned many new search tools, I also understand that search is constantly evolving, and in order to be familiar with searching overall you need to practice and take things slow. Many times this semester I've slowly gone through databases which has helped me understand them better, and in turn that makes me more useful as an information professional.

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As a whole, this class has made me both more aware of and more confident in my search skills. I've learned to accept that searching is truly a technique that takes time to master. More specifically, I've learned:
1. Use the help/tips pages that databases provide! These helps pages give an overview of the database's features and how to use them.
2. Different topics require different search methods! Using discovery search doesn't work for everything, and using a specific database isn't always appropriate either. Choosing the right database or search engine is just as important as every other search technique.
3. Google is love. Obviously I knew this beforehand, but Dan Russel's lessons have me feeling like a professional Googler.
4. I have a lot to learn. I feel like I've learned so much in this class, but it's also opened my peripheral vision to so many other topics I can dive deeper into; the semantic web, the deep web, linked data,  directories/portals, etc.

So much of what I've learned is so applicable to real life and my future career as a librarian. It's really nice when a class does both of these things. :)

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-I do not know how everything works. But I have a better developed ability to read the information situation in a database or search environment and move productively from there. It's the difference between looking under the hood for direction and not even knowing there was anything under the hood.
-I have a new vocabulary for search. Naming the tools I have in my toolkit helps me have a better understand what I am capable of doing in different search environments.
-I can see how my search needs help to shape the choices I make in database or search environment. The query language isn't the only variable that's important. Knowing how to choose the best tools for the job requires its own kind of attention.

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Here are just a few of the most significant takeaways so far this semester.

1) I have a search toolkit! Honestly, I still don't understand why I didn't have one growing up. As many of us have discussed so far, many of the simple skills and strategies we've picked up along the way would have been so useful in high school and college! Facet analysis is not only a great search strategy, but an important way of looking at the world and understanding an information need.

2) I am much more comfortable exploring databases than I have been in the past. I'm so happy that we've taken the time to not only explore the various types of databases available, but we have compared/contrasted structural and interface differences among databases, analyzed the various skills that are needed to use them effectively, and recognized the value in special/advanced features that some databases offer. When I used to open up databases, I would be intimidated by how confusing or overwhelming it looked, but now I'm more likely to dive in more confidently!

3) Google CAN be a good source, if we know how to use it! Getting to know Google more intimately and discovering all these amazing options for us has been so AWESOME! Dan Russell is the bomb [dot] com! I'm happy to say I can use Google much more effectively now. Also, I feel like I've gained a whole bunch of new Google party tricks to share with people LOL.