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Passage B
The Web--My Main Sources of Information
As a resource, the World Wide Web (Web) contains huge amounts of information. The Web is extensive, relatively easy to access, and provides virtually unlimited information. An excellent resource to gain knowledge, the Web is leading the "information revolution". It has made a huge difference in the world, and will continue to do so. When you need current information and you need it now, there is no alternative.
Over the past 12 years I have been involved in technology research. Originally, I obtained software information from printed reference materials and then from CDs. The advent of the Web as a research tool has greatly expanded the availability of information while reducing the amount of time needed on each task.
The majority of my time on the Web involves looking up technical computer information, which I use for teaching Microsoft applications classes and providing technical advice at work. Outside of work, I really like following all aspects of the financial world, and the Web has turned into a great resource for this hobby.
I can't imagine being without it. Although it takes time to sift through the multitude of sources, I find that after years of use I can quickly analyze the search results to find the most appropriate site. The amount of information on the Web is staggering, so it is important to remember what it is you are searching for and not get sidetracked.
The Web is a wonderful resource when you can substantiate that the information provided is accurate and true. Like any other resource, the Web has good and not so good information to share. Depending on what you are looking for, you have to judge for yourself how relevant the material is for you. It is important not to believe everything you read and to attempt to stay away from personal sites, and I try to know who is responsible for the site before treating the information as fact.
The more you use the Web, the more comfortable you get, and the more likely you are to use it even more. The Web certainly helps save time and allows you to focus resources in doing research and seeking out useful information.
Overall, the Web has given me the opportunity to be many more times effective at obtaining data. If I find material but do not have time to read it, I print it out and read it later or on the commuter train. In addition, as I find things of interest, it takes only a few seconds to share that information with my team members and other professional associates. This enhances my networking capability to be in touch with many people with the same interest looking at a particular subject.
The Web provides an excellent way to find information fast. It enables users to find research as it is occurring, rather than waiting for it to be published. It also provides a highly collaborative environment in which it is quick and easy to exchange ideas with colleagues.
The Web is an excellent way to acquire knowledge quickly and easily, visit company websites, e-mail any questions you might have, research topics, conduct surveys, participate in special interest discussions, and gather information for further analysis without having to be physically present.
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