Friday, July 24, 2009
Wiki In Training
Here's something new that I'm trying. Have a look at my Wiki In Training and feel free to make any comments. add any words of advise, offer assistance, etc. Jumping into a whole new realm here - wish me luck:)
Thursday, July 23, 2009
You Mean Virtually Anyone Can Use This?
Ok, so we know there is a lot of information in these virtual libraries, but who is really going to use them? Let's have a look at who the different users can be. In a school setting there will be teachers and support staff, students, parents, and administrative officers. Outside the school can be district personnel, trustees, and any interested parties. These groups can be initially blanketed into to users - adults and students.
The adults can access the references, pathfinders, databases and periodicals to help the students with schoolwork, assignments or personal interests. Instructional videos and podcasts may also fall into that category although they are more likely to be used by the teachers and maybe parents. The collaborative aspect can be used in the classrooms incorporating group work. As well, both teachers and admin can maintain professional dialogue in their areas of expertise. Everyone can use the Web 2.0 tools, as this is a relatively new area to explore. The use of ebooks would fall predominantly to the students. They would also use the references, YouTube videos, pathfinders, databases and catalogue searches. I would encourage the use of the collaborative aspect, but I may have to get the teachers onside with this first to be able to promote it better.
I almost forgot the heaviest user - me. The Teacher-Librarian would use this constantly for many of the features provided can be used to offer the services we love to provide - when we can't answer the questions on our own first of course:) By sharing this valuable resource via staff meetings, on the school's blog, with signage, through word of mouth, with hands-on experience, during orientations, etc., it would be a well sought after addition to the Library Media Resource Center.
The adults can access the references, pathfinders, databases and periodicals to help the students with schoolwork, assignments or personal interests. Instructional videos and podcasts may also fall into that category although they are more likely to be used by the teachers and maybe parents. The collaborative aspect can be used in the classrooms incorporating group work. As well, both teachers and admin can maintain professional dialogue in their areas of expertise. Everyone can use the Web 2.0 tools, as this is a relatively new area to explore. The use of ebooks would fall predominantly to the students. They would also use the references, YouTube videos, pathfinders, databases and catalogue searches. I would encourage the use of the collaborative aspect, but I may have to get the teachers onside with this first to be able to promote it better.
I almost forgot the heaviest user - me. The Teacher-Librarian would use this constantly for many of the features provided can be used to offer the services we love to provide - when we can't answer the questions on our own first of course:) By sharing this valuable resource via staff meetings, on the school's blog, with signage, through word of mouth, with hands-on experience, during orientations, etc., it would be a well sought after addition to the Library Media Resource Center.
What's the Word Around the World?
Having presented numerous issues to include in a virtual library, I'm left with a tough decision of what to include on my library blog. I don't want something too complex, as I am bridging the elementary and high school scenario. So it should be fun. I also want it to appeal to the staff so they can use it as a resource, professional development and collaboration. I also need to consider the parents in the community so they too can see the value in such a service. Decisions, decisions. Considering all the great possibilities, which one or two will I choose? I don't want to bombard the site with too many choices as to be confusing. Having done the research to see what's out there, now I need to see how others are implementing the virtual world. Next, it needs to be able to fit the needs of our users. Lastly, I'll apply it to the blog.
After all is said and done, here's my choice and my explanation why. These are the key components I'd like to see included for our school's purposes. These would be my must haves realizing that as needs change, so do the services offered.
· Podcasts/ Videos/ Tutorials
· Easy access searches linking to reference, online catalogues - pathfinders, public library
· Collaborative component - interactive - ask a librarian, Professional Development
· Databases - journals, periodicals, ebooks
· Online tools for Web services (Valenza, 2007)
With looking for the above traits, the virtual libraries I'll link to my blog could not be narrowed down to just one or two. I've included one virtual library in each level - elementary to address our Grade 7's, middle to address our Grade 8's, and high school for the Grade 9's.
Penn Wood Elementary School Virtual Library was selected because it met all but one of the criteria. There are Internet links and tutorials provided. A reference desk is available. A link to ask an expert gives the connective aspect. Ebooks are available from many points. The only missing component is the online approach.
· I love this acrostic poem posted on the site:
Linking
Ideas
Between
Readers
And
Resources
Informing
Enriching
Sharing
Virtual Middle School Library was chosen due to the wonderful resource it provides even though it is missing a couple of components. What it does consist of are: resources for students, teachers through Pro-D, and parents; there is a magazine rack offering periodicals and newspapers; and Internet search including Webpage design. The missing pieces are podcasts or videos and the collaborative interactive aspect.
Reynold's High School Library was included because it had a strong Web 2.0 component as well as covering all the criteria. It includes: podcasts and YouTube videos, local public library link, book blog, databases, and the Web 2.0 links.
I had to include this one as it's excellent. Springfield Township High School Virtual Library was mandatory. There are Instructional videos and podcasts, the reference desk offers general information. The pathfinders follow subject related searches. The collaborative aspect includes: links for teachers, a Teacher-Librarian Wiki, and ask a librarian. The databases component includes catalogues and databases. Online tools offers new tools workshop. Other libraries were also included; please have a look at the 'Library List' as well as the 'Virtual Libraries' sidebars.
In an ideal world this would be an excellent supplement to a wonderful library. Realistically though - will it create more headaches when things go wrong for clients? Will it raise questions about asking for more tools to be available? Will people rely upon this service and therefore funding will be cut even further for our school libraries? These and many more questions are still out there. Have you had success in implementing a virtual library to your clients?
Sources
Bertland, Linda. (2009, July 15). Virtual Middle School Library. Retrieved from http://www.sldirectory.com/virtual.html
Lindsay, Karen. (n.d.) Reynolds High School Library. Retrieved from http://reynoldslibrary.weebly.com/
Penn Wood Elementary School Virtual Library. (2008, August). Retrieved from http://schools.wcasd.net/PennWood/Staff/library/index.html
Valenza, Joyce. (2007, July 11). A WebQuest About School Library Websites. Retrieved from http://schoollibrarywebsites.wikispaces.com/.
Valenza, Joyce. (2009, June 10). Springfield Township High School Virtual Library. Retrieved from http://www.sdst.org/shs/library/
After all is said and done, here's my choice and my explanation why. These are the key components I'd like to see included for our school's purposes. These would be my must haves realizing that as needs change, so do the services offered.
· Podcasts/ Videos/ Tutorials
· Easy access searches linking to reference, online catalogues - pathfinders, public library
· Collaborative component - interactive - ask a librarian, Professional Development
· Databases - journals, periodicals, ebooks
· Online tools for Web services (Valenza, 2007)
With looking for the above traits, the virtual libraries I'll link to my blog could not be narrowed down to just one or two. I've included one virtual library in each level - elementary to address our Grade 7's, middle to address our Grade 8's, and high school for the Grade 9's.
Penn Wood Elementary School Virtual Library was selected because it met all but one of the criteria. There are Internet links and tutorials provided. A reference desk is available. A link to ask an expert gives the connective aspect. Ebooks are available from many points. The only missing component is the online approach.
· I love this acrostic poem posted on the site:
Linking
Ideas
Between
Readers
And
Resources
Informing
Enriching
Sharing
Virtual Middle School Library was chosen due to the wonderful resource it provides even though it is missing a couple of components. What it does consist of are: resources for students, teachers through Pro-D, and parents; there is a magazine rack offering periodicals and newspapers; and Internet search including Webpage design. The missing pieces are podcasts or videos and the collaborative interactive aspect.
Reynold's High School Library was included because it had a strong Web 2.0 component as well as covering all the criteria. It includes: podcasts and YouTube videos, local public library link, book blog, databases, and the Web 2.0 links.
I had to include this one as it's excellent. Springfield Township High School Virtual Library was mandatory. There are Instructional videos and podcasts, the reference desk offers general information. The pathfinders follow subject related searches. The collaborative aspect includes: links for teachers, a Teacher-Librarian Wiki, and ask a librarian. The databases component includes catalogues and databases. Online tools offers new tools workshop. Other libraries were also included; please have a look at the 'Library List' as well as the 'Virtual Libraries' sidebars.
In an ideal world this would be an excellent supplement to a wonderful library. Realistically though - will it create more headaches when things go wrong for clients? Will it raise questions about asking for more tools to be available? Will people rely upon this service and therefore funding will be cut even further for our school libraries? These and many more questions are still out there. Have you had success in implementing a virtual library to your clients?
Sources
Bertland, Linda. (2009, July 15). Virtual Middle School Library. Retrieved from http://www.sldirectory.com/virtual.html
Lindsay, Karen. (n.d.) Reynolds High School Library. Retrieved from http://reynoldslibrary.weebly.com/
Penn Wood Elementary School Virtual Library. (2008, August). Retrieved from http://schools.wcasd.net/PennWood/Staff/library/index.html
Valenza, Joyce. (2007, July 11). A WebQuest About School Library Websites. Retrieved from http://schoollibrarywebsites.wikispaces.com/.
Valenza, Joyce. (2009, June 10). Springfield Township High School Virtual Library. Retrieved from http://www.sdst.org/shs/library/
If Virtual Libraries Are So Great, Why Aren't There More Of Them?
You have to agree that there is something wonderful happening out there in the virtual realm, but is there something that counters it in the real world? There always seems to be a balance. Here are some problems that I can see arise. I'm finding that through my searches for true virtual libraries, the funding is not being supplied to keep these libraries up and running. I know that my own school district has had funding cuts where our elementary librarians are employed only one day per week. At the middle school level we are up to three-quarter time, and only at the high school level are there full-time librarians. Due to this shortage in monies directed towards libraries, it does make sense to inform and educate educational personnel about virtual libraries. Why not have access to information and resources at all times? Why only when the school library is open?
This raises a concern about needing libraries at all if everything you need is available online. There is still something to be said about the handling real books - I don't think they will ever go away. I had a regular student who would come into the library to see what new books I had purchased. He would gingerly pick up the books, open the cover, and inhale deeply. He said there was nothing like the smell of a newly published book. It always put a smile on his face. You certainly can't get the senses involved in the virtual world.
That brings me to the next question - Are book publishers about to give up producing books for people to read just because e-books are available online? Why do all these questions revolve around money?
If I Don't Have the Funds to Travel the World, I'll Bring the World to Me.
To put this into perspective for use in my library, I narrowed down my focus to the usage of fiction that I'm highly sought after by my patrons. I turned to EduChoices to find online Libraries 25 Places to Read Free Books Online. Some of the favourites will be: Bibliomania (also offers student resources), Fiction.us (for novels), and Project Gutenberg (offers 125 000 titles). Although you will probably not find all the books you are looking for, there is certainly quite a selection provided covering numerous genres.
With a reference such as this attached to my library blog, I can entertain those students looking for that illustrious title. I will also suggest to students and staff, that these resources are available at all times and can be accessed from home as well to broaden the field of library use.
Source
Kahney, Melissa. (2008, August 21). EduChoices to find online Libraries - 25 Places to Read Free Books Online. Retrieved from http://educhoices.org/articles/Online_Libraries_-_25_Places_to_Read_Free_Books_Online.html
This raises a concern about needing libraries at all if everything you need is available online. There is still something to be said about the handling real books - I don't think they will ever go away. I had a regular student who would come into the library to see what new books I had purchased. He would gingerly pick up the books, open the cover, and inhale deeply. He said there was nothing like the smell of a newly published book. It always put a smile on his face. You certainly can't get the senses involved in the virtual world.
That brings me to the next question - Are book publishers about to give up producing books for people to read just because e-books are available online? Why do all these questions revolve around money?
If I Don't Have the Funds to Travel the World, I'll Bring the World to Me.
To put this into perspective for use in my library, I narrowed down my focus to the usage of fiction that I'm highly sought after by my patrons. I turned to EduChoices to find online Libraries 25 Places to Read Free Books Online. Some of the favourites will be: Bibliomania (also offers student resources), Fiction.us (for novels), and Project Gutenberg (offers 125 000 titles). Although you will probably not find all the books you are looking for, there is certainly quite a selection provided covering numerous genres.
With a reference such as this attached to my library blog, I can entertain those students looking for that illustrious title. I will also suggest to students and staff, that these resources are available at all times and can be accessed from home as well to broaden the field of library use.
Source
Kahney, Melissa. (2008, August 21). EduChoices to find online Libraries - 25 Places to Read Free Books Online. Retrieved from http://educhoices.org/articles/Online_Libraries_-_25_Places_to_Read_Free_Books_Online.html
How to Find the Best Virtual Library in the World?
The best virtual library has got to be out there somewhere. If not in the real world, perhaps in a virtual one. How will I go about finding one that I can share with you, my staff and students? Let's look at a marketing scheme of how to attract visitors. That's the idea! Did you see the light go on? After all it's about marketing to get the visitors hooked to come to your site and linger. Through the readings I've done, this article stood out for me because of the suggestions for inclusions for virtual libraries that I hadn't come across before. These are some of the great ideas that were presented in "Marketing the Virtual Library" by Jody Fagan. I'll offer some main ideas before going into detail about what was included.
· Maximize electronic resources. You'll be better able to meet the needs of larger numbers as long as these resources are easy to research.
· Include Web techniques to promote online resources. I'm not sure how many people will read a reference book cover to cover online; therefore it makes more sense to provide articles before books.
· Aesthetics does have a roll to play. If it's not appealing - one won't stay.
· To advertise or not to advertise - that is the question.
· Making connections is so important. How can this happen between the real world and the virtual one?
· Tailoring the virtual library to your needs should be at the forefront of your choice.
· Lastly, how do you evaluate if it's working?
Here are my specifics that would work for me - sometimes it's not just about everyone else. It has to work for the Teacher-Librarian too.
· As I do my own cataloguing, I could really use the MARC records that are available online.
· Sharing downloadable options with teachers would be beneficial - some examples are: posters, user guides, and templates. [Note - consider the time factor in downloading, I don't want to frustrate anyone with getting booted out because it's taking too long.]
· A huge plus would be online tutorials - who doesn't like the hands-on approach?
· E-books are also excellent for us to be exposed to. Wouldn't it be great to have some tools like highlighting, quick searches for looking up unknown words or even be able to bookmark?
· To advertising or not to advertise - there's a good question? Do you need the funding- they pay you? Do you have funding to pay for such services? Or are you just selling out? Here's a tidbit I learned about using the services of Facebook. "Facebook allows you to pay per click or per view." Wow! I know our school couldn't afford that.
· Making connections to match the physical library with the virtual library should be an easy sell using some of these tips. Try placing a 'book dummy' on the shelf beside something that would be a popular choice online. Create a poster at the end of the stacks to direct users to specific areas. Here's one I can apply right away - put up a sign by the newspaper stand to direct users to the online version to access the archives. This one is key for me to include - incorporate an orientation of the online site that can be accessed at all times.
· Tailoring traditional needs such as email capabilities. Don't forget to be creative with some quick and easy selling features like 'In 15 seconds I can show you how this resource can improve your life'.
· Finally, conducting surveys allows for the collection of important feedback - we can all gain from this type of evaluation.
With so many options to look for and use in a virtual library, I'm well on my way to making some great choices when deciding upon which sites to choose to add to my blog. I feel like my workload just got a lot lighter - I like that feeling as it will free me up to allow for more collaborating.
Source
Fagan, Jody. (2009, July). Marketing the VIRTUAL LIBRARY. Computers in Libraries, 29(7), 25-30. Retrieved from ProQuest Education Journals. (Document ID: 1796623291).
· Maximize electronic resources. You'll be better able to meet the needs of larger numbers as long as these resources are easy to research.
· Include Web techniques to promote online resources. I'm not sure how many people will read a reference book cover to cover online; therefore it makes more sense to provide articles before books.
· Aesthetics does have a roll to play. If it's not appealing - one won't stay.
· To advertise or not to advertise - that is the question.
· Making connections is so important. How can this happen between the real world and the virtual one?
· Tailoring the virtual library to your needs should be at the forefront of your choice.
· Lastly, how do you evaluate if it's working?
Here are my specifics that would work for me - sometimes it's not just about everyone else. It has to work for the Teacher-Librarian too.
· As I do my own cataloguing, I could really use the MARC records that are available online.
· Sharing downloadable options with teachers would be beneficial - some examples are: posters, user guides, and templates. [Note - consider the time factor in downloading, I don't want to frustrate anyone with getting booted out because it's taking too long.]
· A huge plus would be online tutorials - who doesn't like the hands-on approach?
· E-books are also excellent for us to be exposed to. Wouldn't it be great to have some tools like highlighting, quick searches for looking up unknown words or even be able to bookmark?
· To advertising or not to advertise - there's a good question? Do you need the funding- they pay you? Do you have funding to pay for such services? Or are you just selling out? Here's a tidbit I learned about using the services of Facebook. "Facebook allows you to pay per click or per view." Wow! I know our school couldn't afford that.
· Making connections to match the physical library with the virtual library should be an easy sell using some of these tips. Try placing a 'book dummy' on the shelf beside something that would be a popular choice online. Create a poster at the end of the stacks to direct users to specific areas. Here's one I can apply right away - put up a sign by the newspaper stand to direct users to the online version to access the archives. This one is key for me to include - incorporate an orientation of the online site that can be accessed at all times.
· Tailoring traditional needs such as email capabilities. Don't forget to be creative with some quick and easy selling features like 'In 15 seconds I can show you how this resource can improve your life'.
· Finally, conducting surveys allows for the collection of important feedback - we can all gain from this type of evaluation.
With so many options to look for and use in a virtual library, I'm well on my way to making some great choices when deciding upon which sites to choose to add to my blog. I feel like my workload just got a lot lighter - I like that feeling as it will free me up to allow for more collaborating.
Source
Fagan, Jody. (2009, July). Marketing the VIRTUAL LIBRARY. Computers in Libraries, 29(7), 25-30. Retrieved from ProQuest Education Journals. (Document ID: 1796623291).
Travelling Around the World and Beyond
Where is there a place where you can gather everything you could possibly imagine - within reason of course? Ah, to have the world at your fingertips. This could only be true in the virtual world - right? There are such things as virtual libraries in the virtual world of Second Life, but I'm talking about everyone being able to access resources anytime, anywhere by anyone - not just resident avatars. I personally don't have the extra time in my day to play in virtual worlds; I guess it's just not my thing although I'm sure it appeals to many Generation Xers. I do have to say I was curious about what is being offered in the virtual world of Second Life; if you are as well, check this out from YouTube SL Libraries - Info Island Archipelago Tour. There are many aspects covered like podcasts, rotating exhibits, and the offering of translations into many languages. The focus here will be on virtual libraries on the Internet not including Second Life.
In the world of physical libraries, I'd like to make the distinction between a school that has a website - blog, wiki, etc with catalogue searches/resources available and true virtual libraries (VL). The latter involves online interaction. A VL has: organization and access not physically present, are accessible at any time (not just when the school is open), comprises of audio and visual resources, allows for collaboration amongst users, provides tutorials, and offers online periodicals (Gunn, 2002). Wow - that sure is asking a lot of any one organizational entity. There are indeed some amazing compilations available.
While there are many subject specific virtual libraries available online, I will direct my findings of resources to school library use. I had viewed Springfield's Virtual Library previously but I had not realized that the emphasis of virtual libraries "is on organization and access, no on physical collections" as Gunn points out. I thought that copious quantities of server space was required to operate virtual sites, but it makes much more sense to be able to access the information through links.
If I were looking for the perfect virtual library I would be looking for certain characteristics. In "Excellence in Service in the Virtual Library", not only does Balas list virtual libraries to check out but also includes applying something new. The sites to check out are:
· Virtual Reference Shelf (Library of Congress) This site offers selected Web resources that have been complied by the Library of Congress and includes: an annotated list of reference Websites, a librarian's index to the Internet, and reference desk (Refdesk).
· Virtual Reference Library It is great to have a Canadian focus, Ontario based to research topics closer to home. Touted as "the best of the Library and the Internet brought to you by librarians". It is broken down into subject categories. It also links to other Library portals and digital collections.
· People's Network: Online services from public libraries. This provider offers three entry points: 'Enquire' for your questions answered in real-time by real people; 'Discover' has a mix of images, websites, news, etc; and 'Read' allows you to explore books to read and share with others. This has a clean, simple easy to follow appealing interface.
The new thing being introduced is the "LibraryH3Ip: A New Flexible Chat Reference System". Here's how it will work: it is "an integrated instant messaging and web chat system ... designed specifically for libraries offering virtual reference services". Granted this is still in infancy stages - but think of the endless possibilities!
These are just a few of the possibilities in the realm of virtual libraries. The wonderful part about them is that they have so much to offer that's only a click or two away.
Sources
Balas, Janet. (2009, January). Excellence in Service in the Virtual Library. Computers in Libraries, 29(1), 36. Retrieved from ProQuest Education Journals. (Document ID: 1624012291).
Gunn, Holly. (2002, July). Virtual Libraries Supporting Student Learning. Retrieved from http://trailfire.com/joannedegroot/marks/323817.
Kilara, Rosmairta. (2007, May 11). SL Libraries - Info Island Archipelago Tour. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8v3TZethQ0.
People's Network: Online services from public libraries. Retrieved from http://www.peoplesnetwork.gov.uk/
Valenza, Joyce. (2009, June 10). Springfield Township High School Virtual Library. Retrieved from http://www.sdst.org/shs/library/
Virtual Reference Library- Ontario. Retrieved from http://www.virtualreferencelibrary.ca/
Virtual Reference Shelf (Library of Congress). Retrieved from http://www.loc.gov/rr/askalib/virtualref.html
In the world of physical libraries, I'd like to make the distinction between a school that has a website - blog, wiki, etc with catalogue searches/resources available and true virtual libraries (VL). The latter involves online interaction. A VL has: organization and access not physically present, are accessible at any time (not just when the school is open), comprises of audio and visual resources, allows for collaboration amongst users, provides tutorials, and offers online periodicals (Gunn, 2002). Wow - that sure is asking a lot of any one organizational entity. There are indeed some amazing compilations available.
While there are many subject specific virtual libraries available online, I will direct my findings of resources to school library use. I had viewed Springfield's Virtual Library previously but I had not realized that the emphasis of virtual libraries "is on organization and access, no on physical collections" as Gunn points out. I thought that copious quantities of server space was required to operate virtual sites, but it makes much more sense to be able to access the information through links.
If I were looking for the perfect virtual library I would be looking for certain characteristics. In "Excellence in Service in the Virtual Library", not only does Balas list virtual libraries to check out but also includes applying something new. The sites to check out are:
· Virtual Reference Shelf (Library of Congress) This site offers selected Web resources that have been complied by the Library of Congress and includes: an annotated list of reference Websites, a librarian's index to the Internet, and reference desk (Refdesk).
· Virtual Reference Library It is great to have a Canadian focus, Ontario based to research topics closer to home. Touted as "the best of the Library and the Internet brought to you by librarians". It is broken down into subject categories. It also links to other Library portals and digital collections.
· People's Network: Online services from public libraries. This provider offers three entry points: 'Enquire' for your questions answered in real-time by real people; 'Discover' has a mix of images, websites, news, etc; and 'Read' allows you to explore books to read and share with others. This has a clean, simple easy to follow appealing interface.
The new thing being introduced is the "LibraryH3Ip: A New Flexible Chat Reference System". Here's how it will work: it is "an integrated instant messaging and web chat system ... designed specifically for libraries offering virtual reference services". Granted this is still in infancy stages - but think of the endless possibilities!
These are just a few of the possibilities in the realm of virtual libraries. The wonderful part about them is that they have so much to offer that's only a click or two away.
Sources
Balas, Janet. (2009, January). Excellence in Service in the Virtual Library. Computers in Libraries, 29(1), 36. Retrieved from ProQuest Education Journals. (Document ID: 1624012291).
Gunn, Holly. (2002, July). Virtual Libraries Supporting Student Learning. Retrieved from http://trailfire.com/joannedegroot/marks/323817.
Kilara, Rosmairta. (2007, May 11). SL Libraries - Info Island Archipelago Tour. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8v3TZethQ0.
People's Network: Online services from public libraries. Retrieved from http://www.peoplesnetwork.gov.uk/
Valenza, Joyce. (2009, June 10). Springfield Township High School Virtual Library. Retrieved from http://www.sdst.org/shs/library/
Virtual Reference Library- Ontario. Retrieved from http://www.virtualreferencelibrary.ca/
Virtual Reference Shelf (Library of Congress). Retrieved from http://www.loc.gov/rr/askalib/virtualref.html
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Virtual Library Tour in Second Life
What better way to see what a virtual library looks like than to go visit one. Please enjoy this YouTube video of SL Libraries - Info Island Archipelago Tour.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Connections with the Real World
What does the near future look like? With this being a new concept to me, it seems futuristic. I am surprised there are already many podcasts available. As Richardson (2009, p.113) points when he refers to the Education Podcast Network(http://epnweb.org/), there are lists of about 1 000 education-related shows that are available. I checked out some that were at the middle school level (as that is where I teach) and found an impressive looking list. Some podcasts were unable to locate the feed or I felt some were too dated. What I did find were many feature length programs that could be applied to professional development in my school. One example might be to share the ITConversations(http://itc.conversationsnetwork.org/shows/detail4147.html#) where Dave Winer talks about receiving the news on Twitter. Boy, that would be an eye opener for my staff. Others were more applicable to certain subject areas such as the Medieval Podcast(http://podcasts.medievalstudies.info/archives/7). This would supplement the Socials class quite nicely with the speaker being a specialist in the area.
A question to pose is how do I approach my staff to share in this huge wealth of knowledge to make these connections with podcasting for both their professional development as well as their everyday teaching? How would another library do it, I wonder? Let's look to the experts and see what their recommendations are. On Library 2.0, I found a forum discussing this very topic Library 2.0(http://library20.ning.com/forum/topics/515108:Topic:10190). The Colorado Department of Education has a detailed Podcasting Resources for Libraries(http://www.cde.state.co.us/cdelib/technology/podcasting.htm). In this podcast resource, it includes directions for finding podcasts, subscriptions to podcasts - aggregators/RSS Readers, videos and conversions, online resources as well as Podcasting articles in Library Journals. What a great resource to find, use, and share. A number of the other posts referred to using podcasts for book reviews. It's great to get the 'word on the street'.
By bringing this news to my staff, colleagues and district, I feel we can greatly develop our technological abilities in our schools. Having a time set aside at each staff meeting to discuss new developments is also a way to disseminate information. Daily memos can remind staff about resources to peruse. Having book talk podcasts uploaded into the school blog allows students to access this new technology as well. The only downside is the amount of time to get it all together as there is so much out there to tap into and so much we can do to publish our own work. The possibilities seem endless - in a positive way of course.
Sources
Drew, Bill. (2009). Anyone using podcasts in the library? Library 2.0. Retrieved from http://library20.ning.com/forum/topics/515108:Topic:10190
Podcasting Resources for Libraries. (2009, March). Colorado State Library. Retrieved from http://www.cde.state.co.us/cdelib/technology/podcasting.htm.
Richardson, Will. (2009). Blogs, Wikis, Podcasts, and Other Powerful Web Tools for Classrooms. Corwin Press, CA.
Warlick, David. Education Podcast Network. Retrieved from http://epnweb.org/
Richardson, Will. (2009). Blogs, Wikis, Podcasts, and Other Powerful Web Tools for Classrooms. Corwin Press, CA.
Warlick, David. Education Podcast Network. Retrieved from http://epnweb.org/
A question to pose is how do I approach my staff to share in this huge wealth of knowledge to make these connections with podcasting for both their professional development as well as their everyday teaching? How would another library do it, I wonder? Let's look to the experts and see what their recommendations are. On Library 2.0, I found a forum discussing this very topic Library 2.0(http://library20.ning.com/forum/topics/515108:Topic:10190). The Colorado Department of Education has a detailed Podcasting Resources for Libraries(http://www.cde.state.co.us/cdelib/technology/podcasting.htm). In this podcast resource, it includes directions for finding podcasts, subscriptions to podcasts - aggregators/RSS Readers, videos and conversions, online resources as well as Podcasting articles in Library Journals. What a great resource to find, use, and share. A number of the other posts referred to using podcasts for book reviews. It's great to get the 'word on the street'.
By bringing this news to my staff, colleagues and district, I feel we can greatly develop our technological abilities in our schools. Having a time set aside at each staff meeting to discuss new developments is also a way to disseminate information. Daily memos can remind staff about resources to peruse. Having book talk podcasts uploaded into the school blog allows students to access this new technology as well. The only downside is the amount of time to get it all together as there is so much out there to tap into and so much we can do to publish our own work. The possibilities seem endless - in a positive way of course.
Sources
Drew, Bill. (2009). Anyone using podcasts in the library? Library 2.0. Retrieved from http://library20.ning.com/forum/topics/515108:Topic:10190
Podcasting Resources for Libraries. (2009, March). Colorado State Library. Retrieved from http://www.cde.state.co.us/cdelib/technology/podcasting.htm.
Richardson, Will. (2009). Blogs, Wikis, Podcasts, and Other Powerful Web Tools for Classrooms. Corwin Press, CA.
Warlick, David. Education Podcast Network. Retrieved from http://epnweb.org/
Richardson, Will. (2009). Blogs, Wikis, Podcasts, and Other Powerful Web Tools for Classrooms. Corwin Press, CA.
Warlick, David. Education Podcast Network. Retrieved from http://epnweb.org/
Monday, July 20, 2009
The Readings Made Podcasting Sound So Easy.
After reading many articles on the basics behind podcasting, most offered the downloading of a couple of programs to facilitate the production of podcasts. The two programs that were most often recommended were Audacity (http://audacity.sourceforge.net/) to record the audio component and convert it into an MP3 format. This format is then uploaded onto a web based storage provider OurMedia (http://www.ourmedia.org/) to then access onto a website. OK this is the format - but it doesn't always go according to plan.
Step 1: I downloaded Audacity.
Step 2: I created a recording (after many tries) and editing.
Step 3: I converted this file into a MP3 format and saved it on my computer.
Step 4: I used OurMedia.com to upload the file to create a URL. The field at the bottom says "copy the code below and paste it into your favorite pages".
Step 5: I changed and saved the format settings on my blog to accommodate the link.
Step 6: I imported the file from OurMedia to my blog (OK, I'm thinking, I've finally done it - a smile comes across my face - success) but I got an error message that says "URL contains illegal characters". Now what:(
Step 7: I went back to the saved file to hear the recording and oh, no - it was super fast. Huh, what happened there?
So now I have two unresolved problems - one is that my podcast (from the recording I've done) is saved in a zip format [I think] to conserve space (on the OurMedia server) and two - I can't upload my Travelling Crooked Man podcast. Apparently not all answers are on the Internet - I need to talk to a real person, but who? Any suggestions?
What Have I learned in all this? Yes, I agree we need to be able to understand and use this technology before we expose our students to it. Yes, I still have some way to go before I am there but I do feel there is great potential once the problems are solved. I can also envision a fabulous blog I can include podcasts for students, teachers, parents, and be able toshare with the world as well. Whether these podcasts are created or shared, I feel that with all the possibilities of bringing information closer to us, it almost seems like the world is getting to be a smaller place.
Step 1: I downloaded Audacity.
Step 2: I created a recording (after many tries) and editing.
Step 3: I converted this file into a MP3 format and saved it on my computer.
Step 4: I used OurMedia.com to upload the file to create a URL. The field at the bottom says "copy the code below and paste it into your favorite pages".
Step 5: I changed and saved the format settings on my blog to accommodate the link.
Step 6: I imported the file from OurMedia to my blog (OK, I'm thinking, I've finally done it - a smile comes across my face - success) but I got an error message that says "URL contains illegal characters". Now what:(
Step 7: I went back to the saved file to hear the recording and oh, no - it was super fast. Huh, what happened there?
So now I have two unresolved problems - one is that my podcast (from the recording I've done) is saved in a zip format [I think] to conserve space (on the OurMedia server) and two - I can't upload my Travelling Crooked Man podcast. Apparently not all answers are on the Internet - I need to talk to a real person, but who? Any suggestions?
What Have I learned in all this? Yes, I agree we need to be able to understand and use this technology before we expose our students to it. Yes, I still have some way to go before I am there but I do feel there is great potential once the problems are solved. I can also envision a fabulous blog I can include podcasts for students, teachers, parents, and be able toshare with the world as well. Whether these podcasts are created or shared, I feel that with all the possibilities of bringing information closer to us, it almost seems like the world is getting to be a smaller place.
The New Wave is Here
Just as tsunamis can travel around the world, through the access of computers, something even more powerful is taking over on land - podcasting. According to Gatewood in Podcasting: Just the Basics, this new revolution in education, "podcasts contain information on almost any topic, delivered via the Internet in audio or video form. They allow learners to access information at anytime from anywhere, with no constraints-just the free flow of information". This development is huge in that it's a whole new experience in learning. I believe it has the momentum and the power to circumnavigate the world! I just don't see it taking over too soon in the educational field. I've found that the young teachers are incorporating podcasting techniques into their teaching, but the many more veteran educators are less comfortable with applying new technologies into their practice. I feel if we can show even a few at a time how powerful podcasts can be, they will assist in engaging their students, more interactive learning can be done, and it will tumble rapidly thereafter to produce well-rounded citizens.
How might we approach such a feat? Many applications of pocasts were suggested by Lamb and Johnson in Podcasting in the school library, part 1: integrating Podcasts and vodcasts into teaching and learning. Among these possibilites were collaborative projects with buddy readers, interviews with specialists, and virtual tours to museums. To locate podcasts, Education Podcast Network (http://epnweb.org/) was provided where podcasts are broken down into elementary, middle and secondary schools and then into specific subject areas. Another great connection was about how to evaluate a podcast. Kathy Schrock's "Evaluation of Podcasts" (http://school.discoveryeducation.com/schrockguide/evalpodcast.html) provides a checklist for students to critically look at podcasts; a great tool to add to their repetoire. I know I'll be using this one.
Not only does this approach allow for increased teaching implimentation, but it assists with professional development as well. Gatewood also states "podcasts are changing the way we teach, learn, and communicate. They offer one more method to help teachers build better curricula, provide their students with differentiated instruction, increase their knowledge of educational topics through ongoing professional development". This is a positive attribute for any teacher.
Even the teacher who has been teaching for many years can liven up their teaching by supplementing podcasts into their curriculum. Here's an example of one such experience: as I was going to a class to deliver a note to a teacher, the teacher has his laptop hooked up to a LCD projetor and was sharing a podcast relating to the humanities class that was in session. Now this class had the reputation of being a lively group. As I walk into this class, all eyes were drawn to the presentation that was taking place. Fully engaged, interested, mesmerized with the delivery. Granted this may not be the case with all podcasts, but the more they are developed through sheer demand, the better they will become. It's not just in the classroom where a difference is being made.
This goes even further than the classrooms, as the school librarian can incorporate podcasts onto the school website or blog to inform all interested parties of current events, tutorials on research skills, allow students to conduct book reviews, and use as a communication tool for parents. Will this wonderful technology take away from the personal, social aspect of schools that we know of today?
Picture this new world once the podcast tsunami has taken over. Students no longer need to go to school, they just log in to their computers from home. Their teachers can instruct the lessons on an individualized basis due to the differentiated learning that can be incorporated. Even the science labs can be viewed in vivid detail. Yes, this could be the schooling of the future. What would be the ramifications if this came to pass? Where is the physical activity? Where is the personal social interaction? Could this type of society be sustainable?
Sources
Gatewood, Kelly. (2008). Podcasting: Just the Basics. Kappa Delta Pi Record, 44(2), 90-93. Retrieved from ProQuest Education Journals. (Document ID: 1404441791).
Lamb, Annette & Johnson, Larry. (2007). Podcasting in the school library, part 1: integrating Podcasts and vodcasts into teaching and learning. Teacher Librarian, 34(3), 54-57. Retrieved from ProQuest Education Journals. (Document ID: 1204860731).
How might we approach such a feat? Many applications of pocasts were suggested by Lamb and Johnson in Podcasting in the school library, part 1: integrating Podcasts and vodcasts into teaching and learning. Among these possibilites were collaborative projects with buddy readers, interviews with specialists, and virtual tours to museums. To locate podcasts, Education Podcast Network (http://epnweb.org/) was provided where podcasts are broken down into elementary, middle and secondary schools and then into specific subject areas. Another great connection was about how to evaluate a podcast. Kathy Schrock's "Evaluation of Podcasts" (http://school.discoveryeducation.com/schrockguide/evalpodcast.html) provides a checklist for students to critically look at podcasts; a great tool to add to their repetoire. I know I'll be using this one.
Not only does this approach allow for increased teaching implimentation, but it assists with professional development as well. Gatewood also states "podcasts are changing the way we teach, learn, and communicate. They offer one more method to help teachers build better curricula, provide their students with differentiated instruction, increase their knowledge of educational topics through ongoing professional development". This is a positive attribute for any teacher.
Even the teacher who has been teaching for many years can liven up their teaching by supplementing podcasts into their curriculum. Here's an example of one such experience: as I was going to a class to deliver a note to a teacher, the teacher has his laptop hooked up to a LCD projetor and was sharing a podcast relating to the humanities class that was in session. Now this class had the reputation of being a lively group. As I walk into this class, all eyes were drawn to the presentation that was taking place. Fully engaged, interested, mesmerized with the delivery. Granted this may not be the case with all podcasts, but the more they are developed through sheer demand, the better they will become. It's not just in the classroom where a difference is being made.
This goes even further than the classrooms, as the school librarian can incorporate podcasts onto the school website or blog to inform all interested parties of current events, tutorials on research skills, allow students to conduct book reviews, and use as a communication tool for parents. Will this wonderful technology take away from the personal, social aspect of schools that we know of today?
Picture this new world once the podcast tsunami has taken over. Students no longer need to go to school, they just log in to their computers from home. Their teachers can instruct the lessons on an individualized basis due to the differentiated learning that can be incorporated. Even the science labs can be viewed in vivid detail. Yes, this could be the schooling of the future. What would be the ramifications if this came to pass? Where is the physical activity? Where is the personal social interaction? Could this type of society be sustainable?
Sources
Gatewood, Kelly. (2008). Podcasting: Just the Basics. Kappa Delta Pi Record, 44(2), 90-93. Retrieved from ProQuest Education Journals. (Document ID: 1404441791).
Lamb, Annette & Johnson, Larry. (2007). Podcasting in the school library, part 1: integrating Podcasts and vodcasts into teaching and learning. Teacher Librarian, 34(3), 54-57. Retrieved from ProQuest Education Journals. (Document ID: 1204860731).
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