Leveraging Google Web Search Technology to Find Web-Based Learning Objects

The Web contains objects that can be used to improve the learning process. However, the task of finding these objects is hampered by a lack of tools to help users focus their searches and find what they want. This article describes the learning object search tool enhancer (LOBSTER) which assists users during the search process. Evidence is presented which suggests that LOBSTER helps users find what they are looking for and that they find it to be an easy to use and useful tool.