When it comes to technology, it may seem difficult to keep up with the many emerging trends and advancements. However, these new advancements often signal improvements in many of the processes and tasks that people perform each day.
If you have a career in technology or are considering one, it is imperative that you make an effort to keep up with trends and expand your knowledge and skills. Here are some effective and enjoyable ways to stay informed.
Read periodicals, blogs, and news releases
You can find a lot of information by simply accessing the internet. Online periodicals and industry bulletins are important sources of information for any technology enthusiast. Setting up Google Alerts to let you know when articles are released that contain specific keywords can help you find the latest information about specific areas of technology or developments that you are following closely.
Reading articles is easy to fit into your day because you can access them on a smartphone or other device when you have a few minutes to spare. If you commute on a bus or subway, it is a great time to catch up on technology trends.
Network
There are many organizations and websites that offer networking opportunities. Even Reddit threads and online forums offer ample opportunities to network and exchange information about trends and emerging research in computers and other fields.
LinkedIn is one of the gold standards for networking, but one should never discount professional organizations for computer programmers or social media groups like those found on Facebook. Following people who are heavily involved in technology on Twitter and other social media platforms is another great way to stay informed via colleagues and peers.
Networking opens you up to future job opportunities and collaborative efforts. There are plenty of jobs that are filled via networking rather than public job postings.
Artificial intelligence is here to stay
Many in the tech industry view the rise of AI as an opportunity for powerful collaboration. Baylor University’s blog dives into the ongoing debate, arguing that AI will augment software engineers, rather than AI replacing software engineers. Software engineers and other tech experts will wield AI as a tool to boost their efficiency and productivity with the job roles evolving with the adavancements. While human supervision will be necessary for certain tasks, AI holds immense potential to streamline processes. Additionally, before AI can reach its full potential through deep learning, it will require initial engineering expertise.
Learning to use artificial intelligence is going to be crucial for anyone employed in the world of technology. Baylor University offers an online Master’s in Computer Science with an emphasis on software engineering. The up-to-date curriculum offers courses that will teach you what you must know about AI and how best to use it to advance your career.
You will learn how to use AI to automate tasks and make programs operate more efficiently for your customers. Other skills students will learn during the two-year degree program include cybersecurity, advanced algorithms, and object-oriented development.
Attend conferences and events about subjects of interest
There are likely more opportunities than you realize to attend events and conferences related to various aspects of technology. Online seminars are ideal if you have a difficult time getting away from attending an event in person. However, meeting and talking to industry experts and your fellow technology enthusiasts in person is preferable whenever possible.
Conferences that focus on specific areas of technology, such as game engineering and development, are a wonderful way to explore niche areas and gain a higher skill level. Learning more can help you decide what direction you want to take your career in the future.
Listen to audiobooks about technology
You can listen to audiobooks on your commute or while doing chores, making it easy to keep up with major developments and learn things you can apply in your career. Services such as Audible make it easy to access the latest audiobooks. Most public libraries have audiobooks that can be checked out online at any time, although popular ones may require a short wait.
Find a great podcast or two
There are many podcasts about technological trends, so finding ones you enjoy is not going to be difficult. Podcasts are another method of staying informed that is easy to fit into a busy day or on your commute. Podcasts sometimes have networking opportunities that allow listeners to call in or interact in a forum.
Recognize fad technology and avoid taking it too seriously
While useful technology is always welcome, there are some technological trends that are destined to fizzle out. They may present a great short-term opportunity, but it is important not to invest too much time or energy into an area that is not likely to last. If you work for a company, make sure you are spending time on the technology that is most likely to be useful for long-term use and projects. Be open to new ideas, but exercise caution if they include too much risk.
Have a side project
Many computer scientists have side projects beyond their day jobs. These may be related to technology or legitimate side gigs that help pay their income. While side projects can help you stay informed about other areas of technology, make sure they don’t interfere too much with your work or school obligations.
Software engineers and other technology experts are in demand
Most businesses need software development and customization services, which means there is a very strong demand for those with computer science degrees and related skills. Now is a great time to consider a career doing something you are passionate about, and the field of technology is expected to grow in the coming years as exciting new developments emerge.
