Being a creature of habit, I am usually guilty of heading straight to the internet to get quick information. I have visited the library a lot more since I’ve taken LIB courses, but I still fall into the bad (and easy) habit of grabbing my phone where I can access information on just about anything. However, the information I get may not always be the best (I know, I shouldn’t believe everything I read). I’ve also learned that there are particular websites that can expedite my search and still be, for the most part, accurate....Wikipedia is NOT one of those sites!
When I was in high school, and first discovering the magic of Wikipedia, I thought it was the best thing ever! It’s a site that can be edited by anyone who has a Wiki ID. I used to believe that it would always have the best and most up-to-date information available. However, as long as information can be changed and edited by just about anyone, who knows what is truly accurate and what is “thought” to be accurate. Sites like Wikipedia can be a place to begin research, but should not be relied on. Sites that provide references and sources are more likely to be accurate.
As mentioned in our book, “The basic criteria for evaluating materials include: accuracy, authority, scope, arrangement, methodology, bibliographical content, and currency”…not exactly the essence of Wikipedia. Taking a little time to evaluate these criteria will save a lot of time and produce better research results in the long run.
2 comments:
Hi Greg!
I am also a creature of habit like you and I tend to run straight to my computer to find any information I may need, (although I do NOT rely on Wikipedia as a valid source of information as many people do.)Our world is practically run by computers now and I find it hard to use any other forms of research. I am especially fond of Bing and Google myself, and sometimes I will even use my phone as you do. I think there are other good ways of finding information, but I must say with a family, job, and home to take care of, I think I would rather jump in an icy pool of water than go to an actual library.
Greg,
Everything you said makes perfect sense I am sorry you had to learn the hard way that sometimes the easiest way is not the best. I am also pleased that you are learning a lot in our class, so am I. It is becoming more difficult to convince people that not everything that is online is reliable and that some people who post things are not even qualified to make their comments. I use Google a lot at home, but at the library I really try to find sites that are more specific to whatever the patrons are searching for. I really rely a lot on Facts on File and the major encyclopedias on line or print version. You can really find some very helpful professional people in the library so you are almost always better working with your librarian in person
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