Conclusion

You never know where things are going to end up when you get started. I was originally going to be a library scientist of some kind, but Informatics just seemed more interesting, though not as in depth in some areas as I’d hoped. But, where this Informatics program was lacking in data analytics, I was able to supplement my education with other online courses—so, it could be said that this program is a starting off point for a variety of different pursuits, from analytics to digital archiving to IT and beyond. I was able to create a way to access a very large dataset—an interactive map visualization to dive into and dig through a rich and storied period of American folklore. But I never would have even started that project if I hadn’t been forced to read big data textbooks in INFM 203 and to take a step-by-step approach to considering fundamentals like “what data exists?” and “how can it be shared with people?” Naturally, UFO sightings came to mind. The process then became about researching and finding just the right dataset. Because it’s not just about exposing a dataset, it’s about exposing the right dataset. And my dataset comes from what I believe is the single best primary source within this field. So, mission accomplished.

Also, this degree program has been a way for me to reexamine everything that I learned while working in the vast data mines of the Yahoo! Search index. Now I’m moving toward a greater understanding of the data structures necessary for effective information storage, retrieval, and discovery. I’ve thought a lot about the Dunning-Kruger Effect. Here is an amusing version of it from a blog:

(Lloyd, 2019)

Referring to the chart: When I started this program, I was wandering around on the edge of mount stupid, believing that I knew a whole lot about the movement of data and information. Now, as this degree program concludes, I’m somewhere down in the valley of despair, realizing I actually know very little. But I’d much rather be honestly confused than falsely confident. So, I’m at a good starting point for whatever comes next, and I think I might even be able to see the slope of enlightenment somewhere in the distance.

Reference

Lloyd, A. (2019, December 12). The dunning-kruger effect: Onlinepethealth Vet rehab blog. Onlinepethealth Sales. Retrieved September 28, 2021, from https://onlinepethealth.com/2019/12/12/the-dunning-kruger-effect/.