Information Barriers - I work around my information barriers

Introduction

Informational barriers are those caused by lack of information or lack of quality information. Some people have access to more information than others. Information is the key to success. So refuse to be limited, refuse to be misdirected or misinformed. Find the right channels and people and make information work for you. 

Benefits of overcoming information barriers

1. More informed decision-making.

2. Helps in gaining knowledge which equates to wisdom. 

3. More focused goal setting can be achieved.

4. Saves time and resources as you will be using correct information.

Skill example

I did not have access to data to find out about learnerships in the manufacturing sector, so I went to the local library which offered free wifi and found out more. I applied and am now completing my learnership. 

Charmaine's story

When Charmaine was sixteen years old, she really wanted to become a motor mechanic. She did not have much information about it and lived in a very remote area which did not have any motor mechanics in it. Charmaine did not let that stop her and began saving her pocket money so that she could travel to meet a motor mechanic to speak to and hopefully job shadow.

As soon as she had enough money, she went to meet with a motor mechanic who her parents would send their car to be fixed to. Charmaine spent time asking about how the motor mechanic became qualified and how they started their own business. The motor mechanic also gave her websites she could go to and apply for a learnership with. 

Charmaine now had more information about becoming a motor mechanic and had been able to job shadow to learn more about the job. She began applying for learnerships and was successfully accepted. Charmaine did not let the lack of information in her village stop her from achieving her goals. She worked around her information barriers and succeeded to become a motor mechanic.

How to manage information barriers

Managing information barriers can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to overcome these barriers and improve your access to information. Here are some tips:

1. Identify the source of the information barrier: The first step to managing information barriers is to identify the source of the problem. This might include a lack of access to technology, limited education or language skills, or a lack of awareness of available resources.
2. Find resources: Once you have identified the source of the information barrier, look for resources that can help you access the information you need. This might include libraries, community centers, online resources, or educational programs.
3. Seek assistance: If you have difficulty accessing or understanding information, don't be afraid to seek assistance. This might include asking a friend or family member for help, or reaching out to a professional or community organization for support.
4. Educate yourself: Take the initiative to educate yourself on the topics that you need to know more about. This might involve taking a class, attending a workshop, or reading books and articles.
5. Stay informed: Make a habit of staying informed on current events and relevant topics. This can help you stay up to date and better informed about the world around you.

Remember that managing information barriers is a process that takes time and effort. By identifying the source of the information barrier, finding resources, seeking assistance, educating yourself, and staying informed, you can improve your access to information and overcome information barriers. If you find that you need additional help, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional or community organization for support.