Reflections Readings #2

The Internet-only Research Approach: Does the Web Really Have All There Is to Say?
by Ken Vesey

The author describes his experience during a faculty technology training session in which the bulk of its content describes the unlimited and flourishing benefits of Internet access for students. The specific technology pointed out will supposedly help rid students of timely library- based research. Vesey is adamant that all research should be drawn upon by all resources available and not be limited to sources from the Web alone.
He contends that students might be selling themselves short when they use the web exclusively as their source of research information.
He maintains that teachers should be guiding students into other research options available to them. These resources are reliable and have already been validated as such. His concern about the Internet-only approach is that many of the authors who publish are not accredited therefore; there will be many who will plagiarize from other sources. There are still others who provide inaccurate information and appear to be amateurs or novice writers. Vesey encourages digital, human and print resources in addition to online research components because students still need to be able to know how to find information outside of digital means.
Vesey’s favoritism to original research found in libraries shouts out in every paragraph. It is certainly evident that he has limited knowledge as to what free web resources are available in the area of library archives. Today, there are a multitude of websites and search engines that are designed for the purpose of “filtering out” bad or non-accredited authors. One such site called Invisible Web provides databases and journals that give only unique and specific information.
The author under estimates the current power and impact that the universal web has had on education today. Yes, it is flashy and inviting and yes, it’s much more attractive to students to look for their information on a web journey as opposed to seeking the information out at the library!

Daily Reflection

Today I realized that I have a lot to do for this course and not much time to do it in! As a special education teacher, I have been racking my brain in search of the "BEST" final project I can offer as it directly relates to Special needs kiddos.
If anyone has a suggestion, please let me know!