Information comes in many formats, from digital files, words in books, videos and audio downloads, interviews, and from concrete objects. In the broadest sense, information is anything that you take in using your 5 senses.
To help make sense of all this information, you can divide it in different ways. The following categories can help to classify what comes at you every day:
Analytical: this is how people use (analyze) raw facts. The U.S. Census might ask “how many pets do you have?” Statistical analysis comes up with an answer like “the average American family has 2.3 pets.” We know that people will have both fewer and more pets (It’s unlikely that they have 2.3 dogs). But the analysis is based on facts. Students are often required to provide statistics to back up their statements in research papers or speeches.
Fact: this is something that can be proven, like 1 + 1 = 2, or that the earth is not flat. Facts stay the same and can be re-proven over and over.
Opinion: This is based on how someone feels. When 4 people go out for dinner, and one says the chicken dish is best, another may like the steak. You are getting information, but it is based on a person’s opinion, not on unchanging and provable facts.
SLO CAMPUS LIBRARY HOURS
Cuesta library services are currently online. See online library hours for Spring 2021 below. Click for Information about library services.
Monday: 8 am - 8 pm
Tuesday: 8 am - 8 pm
Wednesday: 8 am - 8 pm
Thursday: 8 am - 8 pm
Friday: 8 am - 4 pm
Saturday: 10 am - 2 pm (only Feb 27, Mar 6 & 13, May 8 & 15 in Tutorial Virtual Lobby)
The Open Lab in the library on the SLO campus (building 3200) is open Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 4:30 pm for computers, printing and internet access.
For tech support requests, email support@cuesta.edu
For help getting textbooks and course reserves, email circulation@cuesta.edu
SLO PHONE (voicemail only)
Circulation Desk: (805) 546-3155
Reference Desk: (805) 546-3157
NORTH COUNTY LIBRARY HOURS
Cuesta library services are currently available online. See online library hours for Spring 2021 below. Click for Information about library services.
Monday: 8 am - 8 pm
Tuesday: 8 am - 8 pm
Wednesday: 8 am - 8 pm
Thursday: 8 am - 8 pm
Friday: 8 am - 4 pm
Saturday: 10 am - 2 pm (only Feb 27, Mar 6 & 13, May 8 & 15 in Tutorial Virtual Lobby)
The student computers in the Campus Center (building 1000) will be open Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 5 pm for internet access and printing.
For tech support requests, email support@cuesta.edu
For textbooks and course reserves, email circulation@cuesta.edu