Week 9, Thing 23 - Summarize thoughts about program

Wow! I did it!!

1. What were your favorite discoveries or exercises on this learning journey?
Some of my favorite discoveries/exercises included: posting an image from Flickr (after several attempts!), exploring LibraryThing, discovering http://del.icio.us/popular/cooking, learning that the word for quick in Hawaiin is wiki and posting from YouTube to my blog... All you Need is Love by The Beatles.

2. How has this program assisted or affected your lifelong learning goals?
First, looking back to Thing #2, I stated that the easiest habit for me was Habit 2 - Accept responsibility for your own learning. By completing this program, I fortunately proved Habit 2 to be true! Next, I stated that the most difficult habit for me was to use technology to my advantage. However, by completing all of the exercises in the program, I discovered I can use technology to my advantage....a very big and wonderful surprise!!

3. Were there any take-aways or unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you?
The biggest unexpected outcome for me was that I realized I can learn and apply new technological concepts if I focus and take the time to work through the steps.

4. What could we do differently to improve upon this program's format or concept?
Schedule more "Drop-In/ Catch-Up" sessions.

5. If we offered another discovery program like this in the future, would you again chose to participate? Yes!!

6. How would you describe your learning experience in a few words or a few sentences, so we can share our successes and promote this program?
I have learned sooo much by participating in this program. I must be honest, several times I was very frustrated (part of the learning process) for various reasons ... but I was determined to hang in there until the activity was completed! By doing so, I found myself becoming more and more motivated to complete the next "thing." Best of all, I will continue to use some of the new "things" I've learned!! : )

Week 9, Thing 22 - Audiobooks

I explored Project Gutenberg and decided to view the Top 100 Books and Authors which appears to be regularly updated. I was pleasantly surprised to see one of my childhood faves on the list -Grimm's Fairy Tales! Then, I took a few minutes to experience reading... online... The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Today, Mark Twain was listed as the number one author.

I probably would be more likely to read online rather than listen to an audiobook. But, to have the option to do either and for free is pretty amazing!

Week 9, Thing 21 - Locating Podcasts

I explored Podcast.net and discovered some library systems (Kankakee and Orange County) use podcasts as a way to communicate certain events. The podcast which I found really interesting was: WTMD Artist interviews. I added it to my Bloglines account. It's a convenient and wonderful way to keep up to date with what the station broadcasts! Plus, from the podcast I can quickly get to the website.

When I have a bit more time I'd like to listen to some of the podcasts I found when I put in the keyword: meditation.

Week 9, Thing 20 - YouTube

I really enjoyed this site. It was easy to search for videos and I found several I liked. Somehow, with a few clicks here and there, I managed to post a video to my blog. The one I selected was All You Need is Love by The Beatles coz it’s one of my favorite songs.

The main feature of YouTube that would be interesting if applied to our library website is simply the opportunity for patrons to view a quick and informative video about something (or several things!) related to BCPL. Our very own Media Services could produce the video(s). Topics could include: general tour of a branch and services and events provided, behind the scenes look at library departments and functions, info about Baby Booster, Story Timers & Summer Reading Club, updates on new branch locations and renovation/projects such as Storyville, BCPL's participation in the community,and fundraising events - Novel Night.

All You Need Is Love - The Beatles

One of my favorite songs!

Week 8, Thing 19 - Web 2.0 Awards

On the Web 2.0 Awards page (http://www.seomoz.org/web2.0/short) I explored the link to the Short Version (Just the Winners) and noticed many of the sites we've learned about such as: Flickr, Bloglines, Technorati, Library Thing, Del.icio.us, and Rollyo.

I spent a few minutes looking at some winners that I always hear people mention (but this is my first time visiting the sites)...Craigslist, Facebook, YouTube.

I decided to look at a winner in the music section: Last.fm which I found interesting. After you enter your favorite artist, a list appears stating other musicians/groups you would probably like based on your favorite entry. Then you can listen to a "station" that suits your taste. This site could possibly help the library with music selection. Selectors could enter artists/groups whose cds circulate well...and come up with a list of other music possibilities patrons would probably enjoy.

Week 8, Thing 18 - Zoho Writer

I had a bit of difficulty when I first tried to use Zoho Writer. I kept getting a blank page with the message - loading. I referred to the Frequently Asked Questions. Then decided to start over again and click on My Account. From My Account I clicked on Zoho Writer and then I was able to create a document!

My favorite feature was being able to easily insert a smiley face to my document! One thing I like better when doing word processing on Microsoft is the ability to visually see what the font looks like. I just realized when blogging, you do not see what the font actually looks like either!