Wolfram - Google Killer?

Wolfram|Alpha
is a "computational knowledge engine" that is generating a lot of buzz on listserves, blogs, and on Twitter. I registered CCHS as a possible beta test site, and would love to have students kick the tires and try it out. Fingers crossed.

So, what's the big deal? Unlike Google, Wolfram's algorithm uses curated data, then organizes the information using a "sophisticated Natural Language Processing algorithm." This engine was developed with academic standards, as opposed to Google, which is more free market. It is supposed to be really amazing with mathematical and scientific searches.

Google isn't going anywhere, but Wolfram may be the first serious online challenger to web-based reference and textbook sources. This 10 minute YouTube video is worth the time:

Stephen Wolfram discusses Wolfram|Alpha: Computational Knowledge Engine

Source: ReadWriteWeb - Wolfram|Alpha: Our First Impressions

Encyclopedia of Life

Encyclopedia of Life
The Encyclopedia of Life (EOL) was launched in February, 2008, and is an international collaboration of scientists, universities, museums and laboratories to authentically classify every specie on earth. Wow! This project has robust funding, scientific credentials, and is seeking input from students, teachers, and passionately interested people.
For more insight, check out these links:
TED Talks E.O. Wilson http://ted.com/index.php/talks/e_o_wilson_on_saving_life_on_earth.html
EOL Intro Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6NwfGA4cxJQ