Hello again! Earlier I talked about whether or not I would need the research skills I have learned in the future. I wanted to revisit this topic because I have found that these skills have extended to my other classes too. When I wrote the other blog, I was thinking more about the future, but I realized that I was unconsciously implementing these tools now.
In my communication class, I am researching whether or not we should subsidize access to telecommunications for underserved people. Throughout the quarter, we have been collecting sources to answer different research questions. Similarly to my CTW class, in my communication class we start research more broadly then work our way into more specific questions. My communication professor calls this the funnel strategy. The goal is get an initial understanding of your topic and from there develop questions that can be answered as you explore a variety of sources. This builds a foundation for your research.
Professor Raphael’s funnel research strategy
Using this funnel strategy and lessons I learned in my CTW class, I have been able to focus on higher quality sources. I have been particularly attentive to who wrote the article and the credibility of the source. Like I mentioned in my other blog post, a source may seem legitimate at first glance, but once you cross reference the author and/or associated organizations, it may be completely made up or very biased. My CTW class has taught me to be on the lookout for these red flags.
Red flags during research are important to look out for, however, they might not always be as obvious as you hope.
Ultimately the research skills I learned in my CTW have set me up for success in my other classes. I have become a more attentive hunter and gatherer when it comes to finding new information.