#2: Everyday Research

Taking a glance back at daily life, it is easy to see how much I rely on researching. Modern technology, like several others have mentioned, make it much easier and faster to get your requested information. Apps and websites are very plentiful, and books are still around as well. To choose reliable sources for non-academic use, I look things such as popularity/reviews, when it was last updated, and if possible, test for accuracy. In academic searches, I look first for an author. If nobody wants to claim it, then it may not be trustworthy. It must be current, non-biased, and simple enough to navigate.

Each workday, I get up with enough time to check the weather, so I know what to expect that day and what clothes to wear. I have an Accu-Weather based app, or I check online on their website. The Weather Channel is a decent backup. One of my favorite aspects of current technology is the easy use and availability of GPS and map apps. Google Maps is my most commonly used and trusted app. When I moved down to Georgia, I was grateful for this because I do not always remember directions easily. It is used a lot during rush hour, especially between work and school drives. That way, I know which ways to definitely avoid. Sometimes GA 511 is a good backup if there are major accidents happening. I also look up hours that services are open, such as the Library, pools, and stores. To unwind, I listen to songs and videos on Youtube or catch up with the news using CNN, Time, or other similar sites. I do keep a tumblr blog just for pure fun and the occasional rant.

Academically, I first use D2L to look up my assignments. I tend to start at the Library’s databases, especially if I know the general subject of my paper or assignment. Others, such as the music paper, are more specific and require Google searches to narrow down the less reliable sources. For news-oriented information, I go to CNN, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, among others.

Looking back, it was very interesting to see how much researching I really do each day, even if it was not academic. With current technology, updated websites, and smartphones, it is becoming an automatic, almost reflexive way of life. Although I do not always like being tied to all of this tech, I do appreciate the good information it provides.