Mister D|z World
 
Hold on there, buddy!
Just what do you think you're doing?  Was clicking on this link really part of your research goals for this session?  Probably not.  You have fallen victim to IMRS (internet mind rot syndrome.)

Like most good tools---shotguns, chainsaws, silly putty, etc.---the Web can be powerful when used correctly, and useless or dangerous when trifled with.  If you are doing research on the Web, and you have limited time (i.e., like most people) you need to be very careful not to get sucked into vaguely amusing but pointless "surfing."  Just spending time browsing around is NOT the same as doing research.  Even when you think you're being diligent, you can catch IMRS.  Most of the sites that you'll access using general topic keywords on a search engine are a waste of time.  Plan your research!  Be smart, like a good jewel thief.  Try this checklist: 

STATUS:  You are trying to choose a research topic. 

    Use internet?  NO! 
    What's better?  Brainstorm on paper; browse textbook; talk to instructor; think!
STATUS:  You have a topic and need to start learning about it. 
    Use internet?  NO! 
    What's better?  Textbook; encyclopedia; library card catalogue.
STATUS:  You understand your topic, and need to make a thesis. 
    Use internet?  NO! 
    What's better?  Sit down and think for a while about what your already know.
STATUS:  You have a thesis (or a good, specific project topic) and have a "feeling" that you need more information. 
    Use internet?  NO! 
    What's better?  Make a list of what you need. Be specific! 
STATUS:  You have a list of what you think you need for your project. 
    Use internet?  Maybe. 
    What's better?  First check the obvious library resources; don't forget good old reliable encyclopedias; and remember---the librarian is here for just this kind of question!
STATUS:  You're looking for illustrations, photos, etc. 
    Use internet?  Maybe. The more specific you can be in searching for an image will help a lot, and you can waste a lot of time looking for images online, especially if you're not on a high badwidth connection. Remember that there may be picture books in the library that can help.
STATUS:  You have exhausted the library's resources, and are looking for alternative sources, different viewpoints, specific information, recent news or publications, or to solicit expert opinion from newsgroup sources. 
    Use internet?  YES!
 

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