“I have an assignment due tomorrow” is a frightening phrase uttered in homes every night.
Whether it’s a short paragraph about the Goldrush or a 1200 word report on Global Warming, it all begins with a Google search.
And that’s where the fun starts!
Google web searches are wonderful – great readers quickly look over the results to pick sites.
Upon opening these sites they can grab what’s needed and move on.
But, if your child finds learning hard, their experience with internet searching is very different.
Web searches mean more reading – too much reading!
Web searches lead to copy & paste and amazing – a finished assignment!
And sadly, web searches often mean very little learning happens for your child.
So, what’s the alternative?
I’m so glad you asked!
There are many options within Google for searching.
You may already use Google images for quick pics.
But, did you know Google has a video search engine?
This isn’t YouTube – though it may link there eventually.
It is a list of videos about your child’s topic that can quickly provide them with most of the information they need to finish their assignment.
Reputable documentaries can be found through Google video searches, look for ones from National Geographic, BBC, BTN or British Museum (to name a few).
Children (and adults) are comfortable with video and learn quickly from both watching and listening.
Your child can watch one or two documentaries, write notes and then get on with the job of actually finishing their homework or assignment!
The videos can be paused, re-watched as many times as needed to obtain the information.
Google video searches mean very little reading – just listening & watching
Google video searches mean no cut & paste!
Google video searches actually result in genuine learning for your child – and they can finish their work too – double bonus!
Of course, there are still times when the video search can let you down and web searches are still required – this isn’t common.
Try this the next time you hear the dreaded phrase, “I have an assignment and it’s due tomorrow” in your house.
I’d love to hear how this works for your child.
Sam
