Not too long ago Google released a research sidebar tool for Google Docs. It allows you to look up information while working on a Google Doc without having to open a new browser window. You enable it from the “Tools” menu and then do a general search or narrow the search down to images, scholar, or quotes. Google even lets you filter your results by usage rights. See picture on the right for a preview of what the tool looks like.
Also right-clicking on any word in the document and selecting “Research” will display results in the sidebar regardless if the tool was on or off. If you look at the picture below you’ll also the the ability to preview, insert a link and cite the link. If you cite the link it will automatically insert a footnote for you.
View a short video on the research tool in action: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvsTdnHRYhM
As you get into using Google Docs and all of its collaborative features, keep this great research tool in mind. If you would to learn more about this tool ask your Instructional Technologist or email itshelp@colgate.edu