The internet can be a pretty tricky place. Especially when you are searching for something specific. You have to always make sure that the website is safe and not trying to steal information or that it has credible and correct information. The class activities that we practiced helped make us aware of the do's and do-not's.
One of these activities was a Google a day, a website run by Google where they ask a question, and you have to figure out the answer to this question by doing a series of Google searches. Its quite fun and entertaining, as the questions are odd and not known to the common individual. But some questions are harder than others and it can get a bit frustrating. And when you solve the puzzle you get that feeling of accomplishment, but it also teaches you to search for a more specific topic, using keywords from the question in your search to narrow down the results.
A Google A Day can be found at this website: http://www.agoogleaday.com/#game=started
Another site used to benefit our internet searching abilities was the website for the "Pacific Northwest Tree Octopus". This site was used to validate reliable sources. It helps define Accuracy, Authenticity, and Reliability. Accuracy is how precise the information is. Authenticity is if the information isn't just copied from another website and Reliability is if you can trust the person telling you this information. Now, the website for the tree octopus clearly does not fit any of those qualifications, and thus could not be used as a reliable source. This author does not provide sufficient evidence that he can be trusted, as the picture of him is a sketch. Also, the information is not remotely accurate, as the octopus' natural predator is apparently the Sasquatch. Also, there is no creature called the Pacific Northwest Tree Octopus, which is a big giveaway. This website can be used as a model for websites that you shouldn't use. Make sure that the website is valid before you get your information from it.
The website for the Pacific Northwest Tree Octopus can be found here: http://zapatopi.net/treeoctopus/
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