Google has developed a new filter for searches that may help international students find the right course. The new feature allows users to search by reading level: Basic, Intermediate and Advanced.
Google has developed a new filter for searches that may help international students find the right course.
The new feature allows users to search by reading level: Basic, Intermediate and Advanced.
Google also 'ranks' websites by reading level, giving users an idea of just how much Basic, Intermediate and Advanced language is used on the page.
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While Google does not reveal exactly how it has ranked the reading levels, the search engine used its own Google Scholar feature and a group of high-school teachers to come up with an algorithm, which it can then apply to every search.
Google suggests the tool could be used for educational purposes, so students looking for information can filter the result based on their level.
University students, for example, could set the filter for 'Advanced Only' results, therefore cutting out websites targeted at a younger audience.
However, it could also be a useful tool for international students for whom English is not their first language. By selecting a 'Basic' or 'Intermediate' reading level, students could search for a course provider whose website uses simple, easy to read language.
Compare Courses has analysed the top eight Australian universities by language levels used on their website.
Google also 'ranks' websites by reading level, giving users an idea of just how much Basic, Intermediate and Advanced language is used on the page.
While Google does not reveal exactly how it has ranked the reading levels, the search engine used its own Google Scholar feature and a group of high-school teachers to come up with an algorithm, which it can then apply to every search.
Google also 'ranks' websites by reading level, giving users an idea of just how much Basic, Intermediate and Advanced language is used on the page.
While Google does not reveal exactly how it has ranked the reading levels, the search engine used its own Google Scholar feature and a group of high-school teachers to come up with an algorithm, which it can then apply to every search.
Google users who want to use the new feature need to click on 'Advanced Search' next to the search box.
This brings up the Advanced Search options page.
Under Need More Tools, there is a drop down box with the following options:
- No reading level displayed
- Annotate results with reading levels
- Show only basic results
- Show only intermediate results
- Show only advanced results