Introduction

So. . . . .this blog is about the dissemination of information, hence the name, Info-nation. We are a nation of information highways, a vast network of communication channels and portals that make information available to mass audiences or to more select groups of individuals. On this blog we will discuss issues and processes surrounding this information dissemination, and hopefully come to a better understanding of this important topical subject.

Perhaps first, we should define "information". Information can be defined as "organized data", according to Harland Cleveland (1985), as mentioned in the textbook by Greer, Grover, and Fowler (2007). In this definition, data is raw fact, divorced from context and meaning. When data is organized into meaningful information, then people can understand it and gain benefit from it.The dissemination of this information is its distribution - the methods, channels, or procedures that make information available to people. This would include places like libraries, and formats like CD-rom. Even people themselves can be a channel for dissemination. On this blog we will discuss the various channels or methods, the role of technology in dissemination, the effect of new methods on the veracity and integrity of information, current issues in information science vis-a-vis dissemination, and pros and cons of the various formats.


References:

Cleveland, H. (1985). The knowledge executive:
leadership in an information society.
New York:Truman Talley Books/E.P. Dutton.

Greer, R.C., Grover, R.J., and Fowler, S.G. (2007).
Introduction to the library and information professions.
Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited.