Friday, October 21, 2011
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
New Blog!
Hey everyone! As the new Assistant Librarian at Clearwater Christian College (CCC) in Clearwater, Florida, I am starting up a new blog that will serve as a helpful resource for students at CCC and elsewhere. Please check it out!
modernlibrarianmemoirs.wordpress.com
modernlibrarianmemoirs.wordpress.com
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Saturday, April 16, 2011
LIS5937: Teaching Information Literacy
The following 10 blog entries chronicle my exploration into various Web 2.0 tools and concepts this semester. This is actually the third time I have worked on a 23 Things project, so I took a bit of a different approach to this one. Some of the entries below I have also used in the lessons I created for a 23 Things on a Stick staff training project at work. As one of the collaborators of this project, I have created weekly lessons that teach department staff about various concepts and applications surrounding Web 2.0 and technology. However, there are also posts below that represent my discovery of a new Web 2.0 tool that I was not already familiar with (ex. Technorati). Eventually, this blog will become a place to discuss my adventures as a young techno-savvy librarian. For now, it is being used for this class. Enjoy!
#10 LibGuides (LIS5937: Teaching Information Literacy
LibGuides: What are they?
We use LibGuides in my academic library for a multitude of things. I have recently discovered just how useful it can be for information literacy instruction as well as librarians embedded into different classes, whether face-to-face or on Blackboard, which is more typical. The USF Libraries web site is comprised mainly of LibGuides. If you go to this site, each individual tab as well as sub-tabs represent a guide.
LibGuides are a product of SpringShare and enable a user-friendly approach for the creation of online web pages that allow for the sharing of information. Many libraries use LibGuides to store internal information as well as public information. In addition, LibGuides are an easy-to-create tool that librarians can use to create online subject guides and course guides. For example, bibliographies created by a librarian can be stored in a LibGuide and easily accessed by students. Not only are they easy to create, but they are also quite easy to navigate from a user perspective. They can also be used to store tutorials and how-to guides.
The following is an example of a USF Libraries subject guide using LibGuides:
Aging Studies
Here is a how-to guide on the USF Libraries site:
Images, Video, and Audio
As you can see, there are a variety of applications for LibGuides. My personal LibGuide and pet project at the USF Libraries is the Gulf Oil Spill Information Center (GOSIC) web site, which is a compilation of individual LibGuides.
Click here to see how LibGuides were tailored for the development of the GOSIC web site. The drag and drop web site creation made it so much easier to organize information and make a site that would be a useful tool for users.
We use LibGuides in my academic library for a multitude of things. I have recently discovered just how useful it can be for information literacy instruction as well as librarians embedded into different classes, whether face-to-face or on Blackboard, which is more typical. The USF Libraries web site is comprised mainly of LibGuides. If you go to this site, each individual tab as well as sub-tabs represent a guide.
LibGuides are a product of SpringShare and enable a user-friendly approach for the creation of online web pages that allow for the sharing of information. Many libraries use LibGuides to store internal information as well as public information. In addition, LibGuides are an easy-to-create tool that librarians can use to create online subject guides and course guides. For example, bibliographies created by a librarian can be stored in a LibGuide and easily accessed by students. Not only are they easy to create, but they are also quite easy to navigate from a user perspective. They can also be used to store tutorials and how-to guides.
The following is an example of a USF Libraries subject guide using LibGuides:
Aging Studies
Here is a how-to guide on the USF Libraries site:
Images, Video, and Audio
As you can see, there are a variety of applications for LibGuides. My personal LibGuide and pet project at the USF Libraries is the Gulf Oil Spill Information Center (GOSIC) web site, which is a compilation of individual LibGuides.
Click here to see how LibGuides were tailored for the development of the GOSIC web site. The drag and drop web site creation made it so much easier to organize information and make a site that would be a useful tool for users.
#9 Technorati (LIS5937: Teaching Information Literacy)
I wanted to choose a Web 2.0 tool to look at for this blog installment, so I decided to briefly look at Technorati. I heard about this at work and was unsure of what it is, so here is a brief description:
Technorati "is an Internet search engine for searching blogs. It looks at tags that authors have placed on their websites. These tags help categorize search results, with recent results coming first. Technorati rates each blog's "authority", the number of unique blogs linking to the blog over the previous six months.
http://technorati.com/
In Information Literacy Instruction:
Technorati, just like any other tool that allows users to sift through information that has been tagged or had metadata applied in some way, is a very useful application. Keeping in mind that there are literally thousands of blogs currently on the Web, Technorati could be very helpful to someone who is looking for something specific. Instead of simply doing a Google search for a blog on a particular subject, Technorati can be used. The instructor librarian can let students know about this and similar tools for finding blogs by librarians on a particular subject, for example. Or, it might help students find a blog with current information and insight into a topic they might be researching. Or it might simply help someone find their new favorite travel blog.
Technorati "is an Internet search engine for searching blogs. It looks at tags that authors have placed on their websites. These tags help categorize search results, with recent results coming first. Technorati rates each blog's "authority", the number of unique blogs linking to the blog over the previous six months.
Technorati was founded to help bloggers succeed by collecting, highlighting, and distributing the global online conversation. Founded as the first blog search engine, Technorati has expanded to a full service media company providing services to the blogs and social media sites and connecting them with advertisers who want to join the conversation, and whose online properties introduce blog content to millions of consumers.
The leading blog search engine and directory, Technorati.com indexes more than a million blogs. The site has become the definitive source for the top stories, opinions, photos and videos emerging across news, entertainment, technology, lifestyle, sports, politics and business. Technorati.com tracks not only the authority and influence of blogs, but also the most comprehensive and current index of who and what is most popular in the Blogosphere." (source)
http://technorati.com/
In Information Literacy Instruction:
Technorati, just like any other tool that allows users to sift through information that has been tagged or had metadata applied in some way, is a very useful application. Keeping in mind that there are literally thousands of blogs currently on the Web, Technorati could be very helpful to someone who is looking for something specific. Instead of simply doing a Google search for a blog on a particular subject, Technorati can be used. The instructor librarian can let students know about this and similar tools for finding blogs by librarians on a particular subject, for example. Or, it might help students find a blog with current information and insight into a topic they might be researching. Or it might simply help someone find their new favorite travel blog.
#8 Digital Literacy, Digital Natives, and Digital Immigrants (LIS5937: Teaching Info. Lit.)
This time around, I decided to look at the concept of digital literacy rather than at a specific technology or Web 2.0 tool. I think it is very important to understand what being "digitally literate" means and about the conversation that has been going on about digital natives versus digital immigrants. Teaching about digital literacy and fostering this in students is extremely useful in information literacy instruction. Today, with the huge emphasis on technology that exists, and the plethora of information that exists in the online environment, digital literacy skills should be learned by all. The instructor librarian has the opportunity to not only teach students about information seeking and research skills, but also about digital literacy.
What is Digital Literacy?
"Digital literacy is the ability to locate, organize, understand, evaluate, and analyze information using digital technology" (source). Digital literacy involves the use of computer hardware, software (especially those used most frequently by businesses and organizations), the Internet, cell phones (including smart phones), PDAs, and other digital devices. A "digital citizen" is a person who uses these skills to interact with society (source). Possessing technology or digital literacy skills is important because technology has changed the workforce, education, societies, and the world as a whole.
In the Workforce
Digital What?
The terms "digital immigrant" and "digital native" have evolved out of the discussion surrounding digital technology and its impact on different generations. The term digital immigrant is used to refer to individuals who were born prior to the existence of digital technology (1970 or earlier). This particular year is pinpointed as the Digital Age began around this time. The Digital Age arose out of the development of digital technology and the subsequent development of the Internet. It marked a shift from traditional industry, to an economy based on the manipulation of information (source). While digital immigrants were born before the advent of digital technology, many of them typically adopt digital technology in one form or another later in life.
The term digital native is typically used to refer to an individual born after 1970, after the introduction of digital technology. From interacting with technology at an early age, digital natives tend to have a greater understanding of its concepts (source). In terms of education, digital natives have been shaped by their environment. It is an environment that possesses a wealth of media and is dynamic, while focusing on immediacy. Digital natives learn better and are motivated through the use of digital technologies. Digital natives tend to be collaborators, multitaskers, and feel that learning should be fun (and they find ways to make it that way). Digital natives are also referred to as "millennials" and "21st century learners".
What is Digital Literacy?
"Digital literacy is the ability to locate, organize, understand, evaluate, and analyze information using digital technology" (source). Digital literacy involves the use of computer hardware, software (especially those used most frequently by businesses and organizations), the Internet, cell phones (including smart phones), PDAs, and other digital devices. A "digital citizen" is a person who uses these skills to interact with society (source). Possessing technology or digital literacy skills is important because technology has changed the workforce, education, societies, and the world as a whole.
In the Workforce
- Digital technologies are increasingly becoming integrated into both white collar and blue collar jobs. Many employers are now requiring proof of digital literacy skills in order to be hired for a job or promoted.
- Job recruiters often use employment web sites to recruit potential employees, thus digital literacy skills are needed in order to apply for a job.
- Many businesses and organizations use word processing and spreadsheet creation software as well as the Internet and other types of technology in order to increase productivity. Thus, it is important for employees to possess or acquire technology skills in order to do their jobs efficiently and effectively.
- As technology is becoming more affordable and readily available it is increasingly becoming embedded in our daily lives.
- For the past several decades, schools have been increasingly integrating technology into their curriculum in order to equip students with the technology skills they will need to be successful in the workforce and in life.
- Computers are often used in the classroom, educational software is often used to teach curriculum (Blackboard for example), and course materials are often provided online.
- Teachers and librarians are teaching students to use computers and the Internet to do their research. Students learn how to identify credible sources, learn about the ethical use of information, and more.
- Many libraries are using games and gaming systems as part of their programming. Some libraries use the game Digital Literacy Contest to increase awareness about digital literacy. Click here for an example.
- Technology is allowing people to communicate across time and space and to keep up with trends in society.
- Being able to use social networking and other Web 2.0 tools helps people to stay in contact with one another, share information, and even sell goods and services.
- Sites such as LinkedIn help professionals both young and old to network, connect with colleagues, and discover business opportunities.
Digital What?
The terms "digital immigrant" and "digital native" have evolved out of the discussion surrounding digital technology and its impact on different generations. The term digital immigrant is used to refer to individuals who were born prior to the existence of digital technology (1970 or earlier). This particular year is pinpointed as the Digital Age began around this time. The Digital Age arose out of the development of digital technology and the subsequent development of the Internet. It marked a shift from traditional industry, to an economy based on the manipulation of information (source). While digital immigrants were born before the advent of digital technology, many of them typically adopt digital technology in one form or another later in life.
The term digital native is typically used to refer to an individual born after 1970, after the introduction of digital technology. From interacting with technology at an early age, digital natives tend to have a greater understanding of its concepts (source). In terms of education, digital natives have been shaped by their environment. It is an environment that possesses a wealth of media and is dynamic, while focusing on immediacy. Digital natives learn better and are motivated through the use of digital technologies. Digital natives tend to be collaborators, multitaskers, and feel that learning should be fun (and they find ways to make it that way). Digital natives are also referred to as "millennials" and "21st century learners".
#7 Widgets (LIS5937: Teaching Info. Lit.)
Widgets
I have heard the term "widget" used so many times in the past year and every time I have asked myself, "What the heck is a widget?". So, I recently took it upon myself to learn about widgets and wanted to share it on this blog.
What are widgets?
There are different types of widgets, but for the purpose of this lesson we are referring to web widgets. So, what is a widget? According to Webopedia, in terms of Web 2.0, a widget is a small application that opens up a door to a larger application. It is a piece of self-contained code that links you to the application. Sometimes a widget is simply an icon for the application it represents (see below). These icons are also referred to as "graphical widgets".
Widgets have many applications. A widget acts as a shortcut. So when you see a Facebook widget on a web site, clicking on it links you directly to Facebook. This saves you the steps of having to open up a separate window and typing in the web address for Facebook.
The small icons in the picture below show you examples of some web widgets you may see on various web sites.
Widgets can be on the Web, but can also be on your computer's desktop. Desktop widgets are downloadable programs that you install on your computer in order to receive automatic updates of content. Check out the Yahoo! Widgets directory of desktop widgets that can be used for computers that run on Windows or Mac.
Widgets can also be reffered to as: Portlet, gadget, badge, module, webjit, capsule, snippet, mini, and flake. Widgets can be created in DHTML (Dynamic HTML), JavaScript, or Adobe Flash. [Click on the DHTML, JavaScript, and Adobe Flash links to find out more about each of these. Remember, you don't need to read the entire contents of the web page, just read enough to where you can get a basic understanding of what they are used for.]
Widgets in Libraries
According to an article in School Library Journal, libraries have caught on to widgets in a big way. Birmingham Public Library has a catalog search widget on their MySpace page. I also took a look at Atlantic Public Library's LibraryThing widget. It differs from other widgets. This widget is not just a link to the application. Instead, it recommends books to library users. The section on the right site of the screen, "New Books at the Atlantic Library", is the LibraryThing widget. LibraryThing also offers search widgets (similar to Birmingham Public Library's catalog widget) and graphical widgets (the icons discussed above).
Widgets can also be used to organize information. For example, the CiteMe Facebook App is a widget that formats citations in APA, Chicago, Harvard, MLA, or Turbian style for books and other items found in WorldCat (source).
Delicious also has web browser add-ons that make it easier to bookmark and organize web sites using delicious.(See the example of the delicious widget below.
Information Literacy: When engaged in information literacy instruction, emphasizing digital literacy and giving students tips on how to navigate through information in the online environment is always helpful. Widgets might be used by many students or some may have not even heard of them. Letting students know what they are, how to use them, and some examples will help students in the future when sifting through web sites and information. Widgets definitely have an application in and outside of libraries.
I'm glad that I finally learned about widgets! :)
I have heard the term "widget" used so many times in the past year and every time I have asked myself, "What the heck is a widget?". So, I recently took it upon myself to learn about widgets and wanted to share it on this blog.
What are widgets?
There are different types of widgets, but for the purpose of this lesson we are referring to web widgets. So, what is a widget? According to Webopedia, in terms of Web 2.0, a widget is a small application that opens up a door to a larger application. It is a piece of self-contained code that links you to the application. Sometimes a widget is simply an icon for the application it represents (see below). These icons are also referred to as "graphical widgets".
Widgets have many applications. A widget acts as a shortcut. So when you see a Facebook widget on a web site, clicking on it links you directly to Facebook. This saves you the steps of having to open up a separate window and typing in the web address for Facebook.
The small icons in the picture below show you examples of some web widgets you may see on various web sites.
Widgets can be on the Web, but can also be on your computer's desktop. Desktop widgets are downloadable programs that you install on your computer in order to receive automatic updates of content. Check out the Yahoo! Widgets directory of desktop widgets that can be used for computers that run on Windows or Mac.
Widgets can also be reffered to as: Portlet, gadget, badge, module, webjit, capsule, snippet, mini, and flake. Widgets can be created in DHTML (Dynamic HTML), JavaScript, or Adobe Flash. [Click on the DHTML, JavaScript, and Adobe Flash links to find out more about each of these. Remember, you don't need to read the entire contents of the web page, just read enough to where you can get a basic understanding of what they are used for.]
Widgets in Libraries
According to an article in School Library Journal, libraries have caught on to widgets in a big way. Birmingham Public Library has a catalog search widget on their MySpace page. I also took a look at Atlantic Public Library's LibraryThing widget. It differs from other widgets. This widget is not just a link to the application. Instead, it recommends books to library users. The section on the right site of the screen, "New Books at the Atlantic Library", is the LibraryThing widget. LibraryThing also offers search widgets (similar to Birmingham Public Library's catalog widget) and graphical widgets (the icons discussed above).
Widgets can also be used to organize information. For example, the CiteMe Facebook App is a widget that formats citations in APA, Chicago, Harvard, MLA, or Turbian style for books and other items found in WorldCat (source).
Delicious also has web browser add-ons that make it easier to bookmark and organize web sites using delicious.(See the example of the delicious widget below.
Information Literacy: When engaged in information literacy instruction, emphasizing digital literacy and giving students tips on how to navigate through information in the online environment is always helpful. Widgets might be used by many students or some may have not even heard of them. Letting students know what they are, how to use them, and some examples will help students in the future when sifting through web sites and information. Widgets definitely have an application in and outside of libraries.
I'm glad that I finally learned about widgets! :)
#6 Chat in Libraries (LIS5937:Info. Lit.)
Virtual Reference:
Many libraries today, whether they are academic, public, special, etc., provide reference service to patrons using chat and instant messaging applications. Virtual reference (also called "digital reference") is library reference service offered online or electronically. This type of reference is extremely helpful to distance learners who are not able to come to the library as well as patrons who feel somewhat intimidated by approaching the reference desk and asking a librarian for help. It is also useful to those who simply have very busy lives and can obtain reference help on-the-go.
There are several different types of virtual reference. There are: email reference, chat reference, and SMS (text messaging via cell phones). Unlike email reference which is asynchronous, chat reference is synchronous. That means that it happens in real time and the user does not need to wait for a response as they do with email.
There are different types of software that are available that enable chat reference. While some libraries use AOL instant mesenger (AIM), there are applications that are designed specifically for virtual reference in libraries. Some examples are:
QuestionPoint: Developed by OCLC, QuestionPoint integrates chat, email, and chat widget (will talk about widgets next) into one complete reference management system.
Ask a Librarian: Ask a Librarian is Florida's statewide collaborative live virtual reference service. It is currently an official service of the Florida Electronic Library and has about 103 participating libraries in the state of Florida, including public libraries, school libraries, and college/university libraries. The University of South Florida libraries uses Ask a Librarian for providing virtual reference service to patrons. Take a look at the USF Libraries Ask a Librarian page.
Text a Librarian: An American Library Association (ALA)-approved text messaging reference software provider, powered by Mosio.
KnowItNow 24x7: Ohio's statwide live reference service with email followups. This service is provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Note: Webforms are also used to enable digital reference service. USF Libraries' e-journal access and database access problem forms are an example of this. See here: USF Libraries Service Forms
Information Literacy: This type of reference service and flexibility of librarians for providing research help can be marketed to students during teaching sessions or by an embedded librarian in the online environment. It is very useful for distance learners since it does not require the patron to be in the physical library in order to receive reference assistance. When it comes to chat in general, it can also be a way that an information literacy instructor makes themselves available to students for questions. There are many platforms that would make this possible. Even if a librarian simply has a Facebook page, there is a chat function built into that social networking tool. A librarian could let students know when they are available for chat, kind of like virtual office hours, and students could contact the librarian for questions.
I learned more about Ask a Librarian, which is very helpful to me since I have heard the librarians in my library talk about it on a variety of occasions but was never quite sure what it was or how it was being used. If I encounter it in the future as a librarian, I will have some background info. and that is always helpful.
Many libraries today, whether they are academic, public, special, etc., provide reference service to patrons using chat and instant messaging applications. Virtual reference (also called "digital reference") is library reference service offered online or electronically. This type of reference is extremely helpful to distance learners who are not able to come to the library as well as patrons who feel somewhat intimidated by approaching the reference desk and asking a librarian for help. It is also useful to those who simply have very busy lives and can obtain reference help on-the-go.
There are several different types of virtual reference. There are: email reference, chat reference, and SMS (text messaging via cell phones). Unlike email reference which is asynchronous, chat reference is synchronous. That means that it happens in real time and the user does not need to wait for a response as they do with email.
There are different types of software that are available that enable chat reference. While some libraries use AOL instant mesenger (AIM), there are applications that are designed specifically for virtual reference in libraries. Some examples are:
QuestionPoint: Developed by OCLC, QuestionPoint integrates chat, email, and chat widget (will talk about widgets next) into one complete reference management system.
Ask a Librarian: Ask a Librarian is Florida's statewide collaborative live virtual reference service. It is currently an official service of the Florida Electronic Library and has about 103 participating libraries in the state of Florida, including public libraries, school libraries, and college/university libraries. The University of South Florida libraries uses Ask a Librarian for providing virtual reference service to patrons. Take a look at the USF Libraries Ask a Librarian page.
Text a Librarian: An American Library Association (ALA)-approved text messaging reference software provider, powered by Mosio.
KnowItNow 24x7: Ohio's statwide live reference service with email followups. This service is provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Note: Webforms are also used to enable digital reference service. USF Libraries' e-journal access and database access problem forms are an example of this. See here: USF Libraries Service Forms
Information Literacy: This type of reference service and flexibility of librarians for providing research help can be marketed to students during teaching sessions or by an embedded librarian in the online environment. It is very useful for distance learners since it does not require the patron to be in the physical library in order to receive reference assistance. When it comes to chat in general, it can also be a way that an information literacy instructor makes themselves available to students for questions. There are many platforms that would make this possible. Even if a librarian simply has a Facebook page, there is a chat function built into that social networking tool. A librarian could let students know when they are available for chat, kind of like virtual office hours, and students could contact the librarian for questions.
I learned more about Ask a Librarian, which is very helpful to me since I have heard the librarians in my library talk about it on a variety of occasions but was never quite sure what it was or how it was being used. If I encounter it in the future as a librarian, I will have some background info. and that is always helpful.
#5 The World of Google (LIS5937: Info. Lit.)
To further my exploration of Web 2.0 tools and neat new technologies that I haven't already looked at in previous 23 Things projects for other classes, I decided to take a look at a few Google applications that I haven't played with very much.
First, I learned a little history about Google. The name "Google" is a play on the word "googol", the mathematical term for a 1 followed by 100 zeros. According to Google, the name reflects the vast amount of information that exists. It also reflects Google's mission: "To organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful.I also watched this video about the formation of Google. It's a pretty cool video.
Google Books: Google Books is a service provided by Google that allows users to search the full text of books within the collection. These books have been scanned and are housed in the Google Books database. Books that are out of copyright and considered public domain (free to the public and not bound by copyright laws) can be viewed in "full view" and can be downloaded for free. For books still bound by copyright, the user can view a limited number of pages and has the option to purchase the book through Google's new eBookstore or through a variety of other online retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble. The Google eBook apps that are available allow you to read the eBooks you purchase on your smartphone (Android or iPhone), iPad, Nook, and Sony Reader.
Google Docs: Google Docs is a free, Web-based word processor, spreadsheet and presentation editor that enables users to create, store, and collaborate online in real time. You can create new documents from scratch or upload existing documents, spreadsheets and presentations. Users don’t have to download software, and all their work is stored safely online and can be accessed from any computer. Google Docs' sharing features enable users to decide exactly who can access and edit documents.
In Information Literacy Instruction: Google Docs seems that it might be the most useful tool in Information Literacy instruction. Google Docs is all about collaboration and can be used during teaching sessions for class participation and collaboration and so much more. While I had heard of Google Books and Google Docs and learned more about each, this was my first time hearing about Knol. Though it sounds interesting, it seems like it is still very much in the development stage. However, it has the potential to be a useful tool in the sharing of information, which is what Google is all about.
First, I learned a little history about Google. The name "Google" is a play on the word "googol", the mathematical term for a 1 followed by 100 zeros. According to Google, the name reflects the vast amount of information that exists. It also reflects Google's mission: "To organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful.I also watched this video about the formation of Google. It's a pretty cool video.
Google Books: Google Books is a service provided by Google that allows users to search the full text of books within the collection. These books have been scanned and are housed in the Google Books database. Books that are out of copyright and considered public domain (free to the public and not bound by copyright laws) can be viewed in "full view" and can be downloaded for free. For books still bound by copyright, the user can view a limited number of pages and has the option to purchase the book through Google's new eBookstore or through a variety of other online retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble. The Google eBook apps that are available allow you to read the eBooks you purchase on your smartphone (Android or iPhone), iPad, Nook, and Sony Reader.
Google Docs: Google Docs is a free, Web-based word processor, spreadsheet and presentation editor that enables users to create, store, and collaborate online in real time. You can create new documents from scratch or upload existing documents, spreadsheets and presentations. Users don’t have to download software, and all their work is stored safely online and can be accessed from any computer. Google Docs' sharing features enable users to decide exactly who can access and edit documents.
Google Knol: Google defines Knol as “a free service from Google that allows users to communicate, collaborate, and share their knowledge with the world. We believe that Knol increases the availability of information, encourages freedom of expression, and makes possible new connections between authors and readers”.
Knol is Google’s platform for sharing articles about specific topics. Each article is referred to as a “knol.” Authors of the knols can take credit for their writing, provide credentials, and elicit peer reviews and comments. Readers can provide feedback, comments, related information.
The original idea behind Knol was that people could collaboratively write definitive articles about any topic they like and get rewarded by earning a share of the AdSense revenues for each page they author.
In Information Literacy Instruction: Google Docs seems that it might be the most useful tool in Information Literacy instruction. Google Docs is all about collaboration and can be used during teaching sessions for class participation and collaboration and so much more. While I had heard of Google Books and Google Docs and learned more about each, this was my first time hearing about Knol. Though it sounds interesting, it seems like it is still very much in the development stage. However, it has the potential to be a useful tool in the sharing of information, which is what Google is all about.
#4 Windows Live: Skydrive (LIS5937:Info. Lit.)
I am very interested in Web 2.0 and how it can be used to increase a library's presence. Because of this, I have been playing around with Web 2.0 applications that I am not yet familiar with. As a millennial (born in 1984) I regularly use Facebook, instant messaging, and more, but there are many other applications I have yet to encounter. Because of a random email from Microsoft, I have just discovered Windows Live and Sky Drive. I think it's pretty neat that you can create a Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or OneNote document on Windows Life and store it online in Sky Drive for free. It also looks as though you can invite others to collaborate on the documents with you. It sounds like it may be similar to Google Docs. I have also found that I can use Sky Drive to upload a PowerPoint presentation file and embed it into a blog. So I am going to attempt to embed the PPT presentation I created for this class and embed it into this blog. We'll see what happens! Technology can be pretty neat. :)
Here is the link to the tutorial for embedding a PPT into a blog:
http://blogs.office.com/b/office_blog/archive/2010/09/24/say-more-in-your-blog-with-embedded-powerpoint-and-excel-files.aspx
In Information Literacy Instruction:
This feature of Skydrive allows instructors to post slides from an instruction session into a class blog or librarian blog so that students can access the information later on. In addition, tutorials could be created using PowerPoint and the tutorials could also be posted in a blog or website created by a librarian. The tutorials could range from how to search for a scholarly journal article in library databases, to a wide variety of other information needs.
Learning about WindowsLive and Sky drive has been very helpful to me. I have been able to post PowerPoint presentations, Word documents, and other Microsoft Office documents to my blogs and web sites for the sharing of information. It gives the completed product a nice professional look and also shows of one's techno-savvy skills.
Here is the link to the tutorial for embedding a PPT into a blog:
http://blogs.office.com/b/office_blog/archive/2010/09/24/say-more-in-your-blog-with-embedded-powerpoint-and-excel-files.aspx
In Information Literacy Instruction:
This feature of Skydrive allows instructors to post slides from an instruction session into a class blog or librarian blog so that students can access the information later on. In addition, tutorials could be created using PowerPoint and the tutorials could also be posted in a blog or website created by a librarian. The tutorials could range from how to search for a scholarly journal article in library databases, to a wide variety of other information needs.
Learning about WindowsLive and Sky drive has been very helpful to me. I have been able to post PowerPoint presentations, Word documents, and other Microsoft Office documents to my blogs and web sites for the sharing of information. It gives the completed product a nice professional look and also shows of one's techno-savvy skills.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
#3: Wikis (LIS5937: Info. Lit.)
Wikis are web sites that can be created and edited by multiple users. There are a variety of different types of wikis, though for information literacy instruction, a course wiki would be most useful. A course wiki would allow the instructor and students to collaborate in the online environment via the wiki. The instructor could post information and the students could do the same, as well as ask questions. There are many things that could be done to enhance learning using a wiki. Course management software such as Blackboard come equipped with wiki software and allows students and faculty to create a wikis within the course site. Many people are familiar with Wikipedia as being a classic example of a wiki. However, because it is collaborative and anyone can edit it, Wikipedia is not considered to be the most authoritative source of information. However, it is a useful tool as a jumping off point for many.
Though I was already familiar with wikis, I decided to do a bit more research and discovered the web site: Wetpaint Central. This site allows users to create web sites using a drag and drop type of method. They are intended to be easy to create and edit and do not require extensive knowledge of HMTL and XML. Wetpaint also allows for the creation of wikis. While Wetpaint is free to use, ads are placed on your page, yet Wetpaint claims they are contextually relevant to the page's content.
Another example of free open source wiki software is MediaWiki. This software was originally used on Wikipedia and is written using PHP. The LIS Wiki uses the MediaWiki software.
Though I was already familiar with wikis, I decided to do a bit more research and discovered the web site: Wetpaint Central. This site allows users to create web sites using a drag and drop type of method. They are intended to be easy to create and edit and do not require extensive knowledge of HMTL and XML. Wetpaint also allows for the creation of wikis. While Wetpaint is free to use, ads are placed on your page, yet Wetpaint claims they are contextually relevant to the page's content.
Another example of free open source wiki software is MediaWiki. This software was originally used on Wikipedia and is written using PHP. The LIS Wiki uses the MediaWiki software.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
LibWorm (LIS5937: Info. Lit.)
(Image Credit: LibWorm)
So, while scouring the web for new tools that I might add to my librarian toolkit for the future, I came across LibWorm. It is a search engine that allows you to search among approximately 1,400 RSS feeds related to librarianship. This is very useful for professional development and remaining up-to-speed on news and happenings in the profession.
LibWorm
#2: Social Networking: More than Just a Way to Keep Tabs on Your Friends (LIS5937: Info. Lit.)
Throughout this semester I have encountered many different types of Web technology, through the 23 Things on a Stick program I've been co-developing at the USF Library (see About Me section) and for this class. It's astounding how many options Web 2.0 tools present to libraries when it comes to offering services, marketing, and much more. Blogs, wikis, social networking applications, podcasts, video...it's endless! All of these tools can benefit libraries and librarians in so many different ways.
Here is the first tool I decided to look into more, regarding the applications in the library profession.
Social Networking: Social networking sites such as Facebook can be used in several different ways in libraries. Librarians can create their own page on Facebook and use it to reach out to their patrons. The page can be structured in such a way that it is there for people to ask questions, perhaps look at the librarian's list of recommended books, find helpful links, and more. Or a library can have a Facebook page to reach younger patrons in an environment they spend a lot of time in. The page can have a link to the library's website, have basic information about the library's location, hours, services, helpful links, videos, and more.
Here are some examples of the application of social networking in libraries:
Here is the first tool I decided to look into more, regarding the applications in the library profession.
Social Networking: Social networking sites such as Facebook can be used in several different ways in libraries. Librarians can create their own page on Facebook and use it to reach out to their patrons. The page can be structured in such a way that it is there for people to ask questions, perhaps look at the librarian's list of recommended books, find helpful links, and more. Or a library can have a Facebook page to reach younger patrons in an environment they spend a lot of time in. The page can have a link to the library's website, have basic information about the library's location, hours, services, helpful links, videos, and more.
Here are some examples of the application of social networking in libraries:
USF Libraries Twitter Page
Some personal favorites from Facebook:
A Librarian's Guide to Etiquette (very funny)
WebJunction
ASLC (Association for Library Service to Children)
Some personal favorites from Facebook:
A Librarian's Guide to Etiquette (very funny)
WebJunction
ASLC (Association for Library Service to Children)
#1: Experimenting with RSS (LIS5937: Info. Lit.)
This week I decided to take a closer look at RSS Feeds, different methods of subscribing to them, and how they might be used for Information Literacy Instruction.
First, what is RSS? On the web site What is RSS? RSS Explained , they define RSS as "RSS (Rich Site Summary) is a format for delivering regularly changing web content. Many news-related sites, weblogs and other online publishers syndicate their content as an RSS Feed to whoever wants it". As is also explained on this web site, RSS is extremely useful to those who want to stay informed on a particular topic. There are RSS feeds for a multitude of things. There are news aggregators, feeds for library science topics, for particular web sites, and much more. The following link has a list of the "Top 9 RSS Feed Readers and News Aggregators":
http://email.about.com/od/rssreaderswin/tp/top_rss_windows.htm
Feed readers allow an individual to subscribe to RSS feeds and read them. These can be desktop-based, web-based, or mobile device-based. I have included instructions at the bottom of this post for subscribing to RSS Feeds using Microsoft Outlook.
Application for Information Literacy Instruction
As I mentioned before, there is a wide variety of RSS feeds out there. For instance, there are many blogs (web logs) out there that allow you to subscribe to updates via an RSS feed. These are applicable to both librarians engaged in instruction and can be recommended to students. For librarians, there are endless options when it comes to RSS feeds. For example, here is the link for the ACRL (Association of College & Research Libraries) blog. The blogs includes an information literacy category that contains relevant and useful posts about information literacy that can be subscribed to using RSS.
A useful application of RSS feeds for students would be finding blogs/feeds that offer research help, cover a particular subject specialty, and more. Our science librarian at the USF Tampa Library, Megan Sheffield, offers a blog called the "SciBrarian" that can be subscribed to using RSS. Her blog offers tech tips for students, AAA style guide information, information about library resources, invites feedback, and more. There are a number of librarian blogs out there that that can be extremely useful for students. Librarians, especially those engaged in instruction, should always be sure that students know about these resources and understand how to access them. In this case, RSS is a great way of keeping informed regardless of whether you're a librarian or patron.
Subscribing to RSS using Microsoft Outlook
Here are some simple instructions I have put together for subscribing to RSS using MS Outlook. An online overview tutorial of RSS from W3schools.com can be accessed via the following link: http://www.w3schools.com/rss/default.asp
Subscribing to RSS Using MS Outlook
I will be explaining how RSS feeds can be subscribed to using Microsoft Outlook 2007. As you can see below, listed under "Mail Folders" on the left side of the Outlook screen is a folder labeled "RSS Feeds". You may already have a couple of default Microsoft RSS feeds listed here. You can either keep, move, or delete these depending on your preference. As you can see from the screen shot below, I have folders for personal as well as work-related RSS feeds. The blue numbers in parentheses next to each feed folder shows the number of unread listings I have for each feed.
Once you click on the RSS icon, you have the option to choose how you would like to subscribe to the feed. There should be a drop-down menu that allows you to choose from applications such as Microsoft Outlook, Live Bookmarks, Google, etc. If you have downloaded a particular application, you can select "Choose Application.." from the list. However, as I mentioned before, we are choosing Outlook as our application. Once you make your selection, Outlook will prompt you to accept the feed. By clicking on "Advanced" on the dialog box that appears, you can select what folder you would like the feed subscription to appear under. In addition, by right-clicking on the RSS Feeds folder in Outlook, you can add new folders and arrange them in whatever type of hierarchy you wish. For example, the first screen shot above shows two feeds filed under the "Work" folder that falls within my RSS Feeds folder. For detailed information and instructions about these features, you can refer to the Microsoft Office web site I mentioned above.
First, what is RSS? On the web site What is RSS? RSS Explained , they define RSS as "RSS (Rich Site Summary) is a format for delivering regularly changing web content. Many news-related sites, weblogs and other online publishers syndicate their content as an RSS Feed to whoever wants it". As is also explained on this web site, RSS is extremely useful to those who want to stay informed on a particular topic. There are RSS feeds for a multitude of things. There are news aggregators, feeds for library science topics, for particular web sites, and much more. The following link has a list of the "Top 9 RSS Feed Readers and News Aggregators":
http://email.about.com/od/rssreaderswin/tp/top_rss_windows.htm
Feed readers allow an individual to subscribe to RSS feeds and read them. These can be desktop-based, web-based, or mobile device-based. I have included instructions at the bottom of this post for subscribing to RSS Feeds using Microsoft Outlook.
Application for Information Literacy Instruction
As I mentioned before, there is a wide variety of RSS feeds out there. For instance, there are many blogs (web logs) out there that allow you to subscribe to updates via an RSS feed. These are applicable to both librarians engaged in instruction and can be recommended to students. For librarians, there are endless options when it comes to RSS feeds. For example, here is the link for the ACRL (Association of College & Research Libraries) blog. The blogs includes an information literacy category that contains relevant and useful posts about information literacy that can be subscribed to using RSS.
A useful application of RSS feeds for students would be finding blogs/feeds that offer research help, cover a particular subject specialty, and more. Our science librarian at the USF Tampa Library, Megan Sheffield, offers a blog called the "SciBrarian" that can be subscribed to using RSS. Her blog offers tech tips for students, AAA style guide information, information about library resources, invites feedback, and more. There are a number of librarian blogs out there that that can be extremely useful for students. Librarians, especially those engaged in instruction, should always be sure that students know about these resources and understand how to access them. In this case, RSS is a great way of keeping informed regardless of whether you're a librarian or patron.
Subscribing to RSS using Microsoft Outlook
Here are some simple instructions I have put together for subscribing to RSS using MS Outlook. An online overview tutorial of RSS from W3schools.com can be accessed via the following link: http://www.w3schools.com/rss/default.asp
Subscribing to RSS Using MS Outlook
I will be explaining how RSS feeds can be subscribed to using Microsoft Outlook 2007. As you can see below, listed under "Mail Folders" on the left side of the Outlook screen is a folder labeled "RSS Feeds". You may already have a couple of default Microsoft RSS feeds listed here. You can either keep, move, or delete these depending on your preference. As you can see from the screen shot below, I have folders for personal as well as work-related RSS feeds. The blue numbers in parentheses next to each feed folder shows the number of unread listings I have for each feed.
(Click on the image to view a larger version.)
There are a couple of ways to subscribe to an RSS feed using Outlook. Before you do anything, it helps to have Outlook already open and running on your computer. The Microsoft Office web site also has an information page about how to subscribe to RSS using Outlook. Simply click on the main RSS Feed folder under your mail folder list. Here you will find a brief introduction on getting started. Click on the hyperlink called "Subsribe to an RSS Feed" to be directed to support page.
If you are adventurous and would like to attempt to subscribe to a feed without reading through all of the material I just mentioned, here are some brief instructions. First, simply click on the RSS icon (see orange icon at the top of this post) for whatever web site or item you wish to receive updates for. This will lead you to a screen that may look similar to the one below. (I apologize for the low-quality image!)
(Click on the image to view a larger version.)
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