Google Scholar
Common Sense says
Parents say
Kids say
A lot or a little?
The parents' guide to what's in this website.
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this Web search engine from Google is limited to scholarly works and contains no ads. There's no inappropriate content, but the material indexed is too challenging for younger users.
Stay up to date on new reviews.
User Reviews
It's just a serach engine
Perfect for older kids, but not for tweens
Interesting and informative
perfect for 8+
What's it about?
An academic offshoot of the Internet giant, GOOGLE SCHOLAR enables Web users to search for scholarly literature on their research topic of choice. Just enter keywords, and the search engine will turn up links to journal articles, academic papers, books, and other resources. In some cases, the publication's full text is available online, while in others, Google Scholar will locate an online or print version that can be accessed through a local library (usually at a college or university).
Is it any good?
Comprehensive, user-friendly, and free, Google Scholar is an excellent tool for high school students who are getting their first taste of academic research. Search listings also include links for "related articles" and "cited by," two features that may help users expand or narrow down their inquiry. Combining the ease of a search engine with the quality and reliability of a library, Google Scholar blends the best features of both worlds.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about online research. How is Google Scholar different from regular search engines? How do you know when an online source is trustworthy? What does it mean when an academic article or study is "peer reviewed?"
Website details
- Subjects: Social Studies: events, exploration
Language & Reading: text analysis, using supporting evidence - Skills: Tech Skills: evaluating media messages, using and applying technology
Thinking & Reasoning: collecting data, investigation - Genre: Browsing and Searching
- Pricing structure: Free
For kids who love online research
Our editors recommend
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.