Information retrieval from the internet for academic use and copyright purposes

Abstract

This research study discusses the reason for using search engines vs academic search engines for information retrieval, and the importance of copyright. The internet was used to gather information for the study, in which the relevance of the different search engines for different end users is indicated. This research took into account that every searcher may have a different need, but it focuses more on the need for academics to identify good sources of information. The result shows that academic search engines are better suited if in need of information of an academic nature, be it science or history. It also proved that an academic search could present more accurate information, as previous occasions. The conclusion was drawn that to base one's investigation for information solely on popular search engines could leave one with information that is not viable because anybody could have placed it on the Internet. With academic databases, one can be assured to a great extent that the information retrieved comes from a credible source.