Curated Research Lists

A discussion about moving away from algorithmic content consumption to a more intentional approach to using the internet for learning and discovery.

The Problem with Algorithmic Content

• Most content consumption is algorithmic-driven
  • Twitter feed
  • TikTok
  • Facebook/Instagram
  • Email (others deciding what you should look at)
  • News apps pushing global problems

The Intentional Internet Approach

• Create specific lists of topics you want to learn about
• Actively seek out information rather than passively consuming
• "Stiff arm" algorithms by being deliberate about what you consume
• Focus on your curiosity rather than what algorithms serve you
• Add a "paper step" between you and the internet
  • Write down what you want to learn
  • Make specific queries based on your interests
  • Follow through on research threads

Example Research Process

• Start with a specific person/company of interest
• Ask "where are they now?" questions
• Look up old talks/presentations
• Compare past predictions to what actually happened
• Follow interesting threads that emerge naturally
• Example: Researching Ricky van Veen
  • Founded College Humor
  • Created Vimeo
  • Sold to IAC
  • Now head of creative content at Facebook
  • Analyzed his 2008 media conference predictions
  • Compared predictions to actual outcomes

Benefits

• Get more value from internet usage
• Learn things that actually interest you
• Avoid getting stuck in algorithmic content loops
• More meaningful discovery process
• Better retention of information
• More intentional use of time online