Practical 6 Reflections

Do you think it is more effective to search the invisible web (databases) than using search engines, meta-search or subject directories? Why?

I feel that all of them definitely have their own good and bad points.

Using search engines/meta search/subject directories provide me with a wider range of resources and information. They are also more constantly update and their information are usually "fresh". However, the resources and information provided may not be as reliable or may lack detail. Searched Results may also contain information unrelated to the topic. Search Results also may contain links to malicious sites and other such "unsafe" links.

Using invisible web(databases) are definitely more safe and reliable in terms of information and search results.

However the scope and number of results are definitely lesser than using a search engine. Therefore, its always best to use both types of research methods to increase your knowledge scope of the wanted topic, by comparing and compiling the results.

Will you use the invisible web (databases) for research in your own respective Diplomas? Why?

Yes. My research have always contained and combined the results from different search methods and that definitely includes results from invisible web (databases) as they contain useful and reliable information from people that have researched on similar topics in the past. 

Using their previous experiences as a guide, I was able to widen my information scope on the topic involved and was able to gain a deeper understanding before starting to look into other sources of information.

What have you learnt from your wiki experience during this practical?

Since I am the only one posting on my topic : Development in Renewal Energy Sources Around the World, I have compiled some of my research findings and topic in discussion forums. I posted my updated views and opinions and finally came to my own personal conclusion about the topic. This experience taught me how to use any online research methods available to me in order to learn more about my topic and share my opinions on wiki.