Today's trending topic workshop is brought to you by Katherine Hamil. Said topic? Recommendation Engines and us.
"You might like this..." - a common sight for all of us using Facebook, Amazon, Pandora, or Netflix. Many of us are so used to these recommendations that we look right past them. Or do we? Here's an interesting article detailing the different types of recommendation engines and discussing the possible ramifications of their usage on our near future.
I myself am torn about their ubiquitous nature. While they are helpful in many ways, especially when it comes to helping us wade through the vast amounts of information available to us, they are also a bit limiting (literally). The free spirit in me bristles against anyone suggesting what I might like...especially a computer.
I really liked Katherine's presentation. I didn't even know what a recommendation was before she talked to the class today. I am glad that I was able to learn more about this topic and I now understand what it is
ReplyDeleteI didn't realize how often I used recommendation engines until you made your presentation. The one on the netflix website is extremely helpful because it helps me make decisions that I am having trouble with.
ReplyDeleteBefore I read this blogpost I kind of knew what a recommendation engine was but I did not know all of the ones that I use. I now know that I use them very, very frequently. They are so helpful!
ReplyDeleteRecommendation engines are kinda creepy but helpful at the same time. On Facebook I see them all the time, but I never knew that it was the computer picking things that I may be interested in. Most of the time though I don't think the recommendation engine is right or picking things that I might enjoy.
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