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Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Beyond Method #12

  • What were your favorite discoveries or exercises on this learning journey?
    • I loved the Prezi presentation software and the survey software.  I will definately use it in my work as Children's Librarian.
  • How has this program assisted or affected your lifelong learning goals?
    • I might feel less intimidated to try new technology based on the fact that these lessons were simple and easy to learn.
  • Were there any take-aways or unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you?
    • I did not realize I would enjoy the experiences so much and be able to use them at home and work.
  • What could we do differently to improve upon this program’s format or concept?
    • I think the program is just fine.
  • If we offered another discovery program like this in the future, would you again chose to participate?
    • I would absolutely participate in one of these programs again.
    Thanks for the experience!!

    Beyond Method #9

    I used Smilebox to create a picture album online. It was very easy to use; I already use it at home. If you had all the picture gethered together it would be easy to show a patron how to create a similar document. It would be interesting for the library to create something like "The Story of Lovett Memorial" as a picture representation of how things have changed over the years. I created a simple album of children's books to try out the software.
    Click to play this Smilebox slideshow
    Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox
    Create your own slideshow

    Beyond Method #11

    I love the survey tools!  What a great way to get information from people about library events and services.  I created a survey to get feedback from our patrons about this year's Summer Reading Program.  The survey is below.  I can think of a lot of great surveys to get feedback from our patrons.  The only problem I see is getting patrons to use the link and participate in the survey.  Of course, this would not be the first time patron participation is a possible problem.

    Click here to take survey

    Beyond Method #10

    I use Skype on a regular basis to keep in touch with distant family.  It came built into my laptop and works great!  Sometimes the picture is choppy or may freeze altogether if the person I am skyping with does not have a fast enough connection.  I also use Facetime on my Ipod which is an easier way to access the same type of program.

    Though our library does not use any of this software on a regular basis, I could easily see the benefits.  Since we are part of a library consortium that covers all of the Texas panhandle, it would be great if the directors did not have to travel to have meeting, or if staff could go through training online instead of taking time to meet in one location. 

    I am sure there are patrons who would like to use these types of programs on our pblic computers.  Unfortunately, this would only be possible if they could use it without talking.  We have a problem with people using the phone in the library and video conferencing is much the same thing.  Since we are a small library, we do not have private places for patrons to do such things.

    Monday, July 16, 2012

    Beyond Method #8

    Screencasts are a great tool for library's to show patrons how to do things.  It would most useful, I think, to help patrons navigate our website and online resources.  Here is my attempt at a simple screencast about how to get information about children's services from our website.

    Friday, July 13, 2012

    Beyond Method #7

    I used the Prezi tool to create a presentation. I think it was a great alternative to a powerpoint and kep thing interesting with colors and movement.  My only complaint about it is that it does make you a little dizzy if watching it up close.  I have only used Powerpoint in the past.  The one way I prefer powerpoint to Prezi is that you have more options for changing from one slide to another.  Presentation tools are something we use often in the library for classes or presentations.  I would definately recommend some of the presentation tools listed to our patrons as a neat alternative way to present their information.

    Here is my presentation:



    Tuesday, July 10, 2012

    Beyond Method #6

    http://www.gutenberg.org/files/1342/1342-h/1342-h.htm

    Was Project Gutenberg easy to use?
    Very easy.  I liked searching through most popular downloads.

    Do your think your patrons would be interested in a public domain service like Project Gutenberg?
    Yes.  Many of our patrons have recently gotten an e-reader and would like access to free materials.

    If a patron wanted help putting a title from Project Gutenberg on an eReader, do you think you would be able to help them?
    Yes.  I do not have an e-reader but I do have an Ipod which has a Kindle app.  I have had no problem downloading ebooks and audiobooks to my devices.