It used to be that research for school or business purposes were limited to library stacks of hardbound books, journals and periodicals. Ease of access was defined by microfiche film and improved lighting, and this was not that long ago–no more than 20 years.
Consider then to now: lightening fast internet connectivity, improved search algorithms among search engines, and free research sites such as Wikipedia and dictionary.com are used for all research purposes. Getting the scoop on any number of topics is as simple as powering on your portable device and performing a Google search.
Ask the average person ten years ago to “Google” something and they would have thought you were speaking in some broken dialect. Yet, most of us let this term slip from our lips as easily as ordering a cup of coffee or Big Mac. And Google isn’t your only source for finding the information you need. In fact, it truly isn’t a source but rather a guide to information. The true keepers of the coveted information exchange are websites themselves, and thousands seem to be jumping onto this virtual super highway everyday.
Whether you’re researching an author and require biographical information, or a particular composition by Mozart and need to hear it played, it’s all online. Or, how about catching an episode of your favorite TV show you missed this week, or the video of your nephew riding his bike that was posted on Facebook? It can all be done, as most TV shows are archived on the websites of their corresponding networks, and Facebook has become the social gathering place for viewing and sharing all sorts of content between family and friends, often in real time.
So grab your iPad, your laptop or smart phone, and settle into your favorite chair, whether at home, the library or the airport. Getting online and being connected to a world of information has never been easier, and it’s only getting simpler.